Cuchillo-Negro Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: T Or C Site 8c Dam Marie Street Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Cuchillo-Negro Dam, located in Sierra County, New Mexico, is a roller-compacted concrete structure designed by the US Army Corps of Engineers to primarily reduce the risk of floods along the Cichillo-Negro Creek.
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Summary
Completed in 1991, this impressive dam stands at a height of 123 feet with a hydraulic height of 105 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 20,500 acre-feet. With a high hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment as of March 2019, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the region.
The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 800 feet and is regulated by the Office of the State Engineer in New Mexico. The structure is inspected every three years to ensure its continued safety and effectiveness in flood risk reduction. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the Cuchillo-Negro Dam has been instrumental in protecting the surrounding rural businesses and communities from potential flooding events, showcasing the importance of efficient water resource management and infrastructure development in the face of climate challenges.
As a local government-owned facility, the Cuchillo-Negro Dam serves as a key example of collaborative efforts between state and federal agencies to safeguard water resources and enhance climate resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions. With its strategic location and impressive specifications, this dam stands as a testament to the ongoing commitment to sustainable water management practices and the vital role of infrastructure in addressing the impacts of climate change on water resources.
Year Completed |
1991 |
Dam Length |
1340 |
Dam Height |
123 |
River Or Stream |
CICHILLO - NEGRO CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Roller-Compacted Concrete |
Hydraulic Height |
105 |
Drainage Area |
325 |
Nid Storage |
20500 |
Structural Height |
161 |
Outlet Gates |
Needle - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
161 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
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