Las Ventanas Detention Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Las Ventanas Detention Dam in Albuquerque, New Mexico, designed by BOHANNON HUSTON, INC., stands as a crucial structure for flood risk reduction along the North Piedras Marcadas river.
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Summary
Completed in 1999, this earth dam boasts a height of 17 feet and a length of 5,925 feet, with a storage capacity of 323 acre-feet. With a spillway width of 1,421 feet and a maximum discharge of 17,590 cubic feet per second, the dam serves as a vital safeguard against potential high hazard risks in the area.
Managed by the Office of the State Engineer, Las Ventanas Detention Dam undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and overall satisfactory condition. The dam's risk assessment categorizes it as moderate, with a high hazard potential due to its location and purpose. Despite its critical role in flood risk reduction, the dam's emergency preparedness measures, such as an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and updated contact information, are currently not specified, leaving room for improvement in its risk management strategies.
Overall, Las Ventanas Detention Dam stands as a vital component in the state's efforts to mitigate flood risks in the Bernalillo County area. With its sturdy design and regular inspections, the dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding communities from potential inundation events. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, staying informed about the maintenance and emergency preparedness efforts for this dam is essential to ensure the safety and security of the area's residents and infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1999 |
Dam Length |
5925 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
NORTH PIEDRAS MARCADAS |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
57 |
Drainage Area |
2 |
Nid Storage |
323 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
17 |
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.
Las Ventanas Detention Dam