James Canyon Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
James Canyon Dam, also known as Whitewater Phase II Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Grant County, New Mexico.
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Summary
Completed in 2002 by URS Corporation, this earth dam stands at a height of 65 feet and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Whitewater Creek. With a normal storage capacity of 209.23 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 39,000 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flood events.
Situated in the NW1/4 of S5 T19S R12W, James Canyon Dam is regulated by the Office of the State Engineer and undergoes state permitting, inspection, and enforcement. With a satisfactory condition assessment and low hazard potential, the dam is deemed to have a moderate risk level. Although the dam does not have associated locks, it features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 50 feet. Emergency action plans are yet to be prepared for the dam, but its risk management measures are in place to ensure the safety and security of the surrounding communities in case of any unforeseen events.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, James Canyon Dam presents an intriguing case study in private dam ownership and management. With its significant role in flood risk reduction and water supply along the Whitewater Creek, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of proper infrastructure in safeguarding communities against natural disasters. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding the design, construction, and maintenance of structures like James Canyon Dam becomes essential in building resilient and sustainable water management practices for the future.
Year Completed |
2002 |
Dam Length |
526 |
Dam Height |
65 |
River Or Stream |
WHITEWATER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
16.8 |
Hydraulic Height |
35 |
Drainage Area |
26.1 |
Nid Storage |
980 |
Structural Height |
70 |
Outlet Gates |
Needle - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
70 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Mimbres River At Mimbres
|
6cfs |
Gila River Near Redrock
|
63cfs |
Gila River Near Gila
|
60cfs |
Gila River Below Blue Creek
|
57cfs |
Mogollon Creek Near Cliff
|
4cfs |
Gila River At Duncan
|
32cfs |
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.
James Canyon Dam