Borrega Detention Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Borrega Detention Dam, also known as Borrega Arroyo Dam, is a key infrastructure owned by the local government in Albuquerque, New Mexico.


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Summary

Designed by Wilson & Company, Inc., this earth-type dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Borrega Arroyo. Completed in 2001, the dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans a length of 2300 feet, with a storage capacity of 169 acre-feet.

With a high hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment, Borrega Detention Dam plays a crucial role in managing flood risks in the area. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and moderate risk assessment indicate the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its effectiveness in protecting the surrounding community. Despite its critical function, the dam has not been modified in recent years and is subject to regular inspections to uphold its operational integrity.

Located in Bernalillo County, New Mexico, Borrega Detention Dam exemplifies the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience efforts. As climate change increasingly impacts precipitation patterns and the frequency of extreme weather events, the importance of structures like Borrega Dam in mitigating flood risks and safeguarding communities only grows. With a dedicated local government ownership and regulatory oversight from the Office of the State Engineer, Borrega Detention Dam stands as a vital asset in the region's water resource infrastructure.

Year Completed

2001

Dam Length

2300

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

BORREGA ARROYO

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15.6

Drainage Area

1.25

Nid Storage

169

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

20
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.