El Paso Natural Gas Dam No. 5 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 27, 2025
El Paso Natural Gas Dam No.
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Summary
5, located in San Juan, New Mexico, was completed in 1964 and serves as a recreational destination along Stevens Arroyo. This earth dam stands at a height of 27.5 feet, with a structural height of 41.5 feet and a length of 566 feet. With a storage capacity of 42.1 acre-feet and a surface area of 6 acres, the dam provides opportunities for water-based activities in the region.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Office of the State Engineer, El Paso Natural Gas Dam No. 5 has a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of the last inspection in 2015. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 70 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 239 cubic feet per second. While the risk assessment for the dam is rated as moderate, appropriate risk management measures are in place to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and environment.
Given its strategic location in Fruitland, El Paso Natural Gas Dam No. 5 not only offers recreational opportunities but also plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, this dam serves as a valuable asset for both residents and visitors, highlighting the intersection of water conservation, climate resilience, and outdoor recreation in the region.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
566 |
Dam Height |
27.5 |
River Or Stream |
STEVENS ARROYO |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Drainage Area |
0.9 |
Nid Storage |
42.12 |
Structural Height |
41.5 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
42 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
La Plata River Near Farmington
|
5cfs |
San Juan River At Farmington
|
622cfs |
Animas River At Farmington
|
297cfs |
La Plata River At La Plata
|
3cfs |
San Juan River At Shiprock
|
646cfs |
Animas River Below Aztec
|
310cfs |
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.
El Paso Natural Gas Dam No. 5