Fort Heron Preserve Phase I Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The Fort Heron Preserve Phase I Dam in Rio Arriba, New Mexico, offers a unique recreational experience while also serving as a vital water resource for the surrounding area.
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Summary
Built in 1950, this private earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and spans 600 feet in length, creating a storage capacity of 65.6 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is for recreation, providing opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation in the picturesque setting of the Tierra Amarilla Grant.
Managed by the Office of the State Engineer in New Mexico, the Fort Heron Preserve Phase I Dam is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, the dam is considered to have moderate risk (3) according to the latest data. In the event of an emergency, the dam has an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 20 feet to safely release excess water and prevent flooding downstream. Overall, this dam is a valuable asset for both water resource management and outdoor recreation in the region.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
RIO CHAMA - TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6.4 |
Drainage Area |
0.02 |
Nid Storage |
65.6 |
Outlet Gates |
Needle - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
16 |
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.
Fort Heron Preserve Phase I Dam
Heron Reservoir
El Vado Lake
Rio Nutrias