Aps Lined Ash Impoundment Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Located in Shiprock, New Mexico, the Aps Lined Ash Impoundment is a significant water management structure owned by the Arizona Public Service Company.
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Summary
This lined ash pond serves as a tailings storage area, with a dam height of 40 feet and a length of 4200 feet. Completed in 2003, the impoundment has a storage capacity of 830 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 56 acres.
The Aps Lined Ash Impoundment is regulated by the Office of the State Engineer in New Mexico, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safe operation. Despite its significant hazard potential, the impoundment has been assessed as satisfactory in condition, with emergency action plans in place. The risk assessment for the structure is classified as high, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and management measures to mitigate potential risks to the surrounding environment and community.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find the Aps Lined Ash Impoundment an interesting case study in water storage and management infrastructure. With its earth dam design and soil foundation, the impoundment plays a crucial role in managing tailings and wastewater in the region. Its location along the Chaco Wash and close proximity to the Sacramento District adds to its environmental significance, highlighting the need for sustainable water resource practices in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
2003 |
Dam Length |
4200 |
Dam Height |
40 |
River Or Stream |
CHACO WASH - TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
56 |
Drainage Area |
0.16 |
Nid Storage |
830 |
Structural Height |
40 |
Outlet Gates |
Needle - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
40 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
San Juan River At Shiprock
|
639cfs |
La Plata River Near Farmington
|
4cfs |
San Juan River At Farmington
|
541cfs |
Animas River At Farmington
|
282cfs |
La Plata River At La Plata
|
3cfs |
Mancos River Near Towaoc
|
8cfs |
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.
Aps Lined Ash Impoundment