Escalante Generating Station Evaporation Pond 5 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Escalante Generating Station Evaporation Pond 5, located in McKinley County, New Mexico, is a vital water resource managed by the Public Utility.


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Summary

This evaporation pond is regulated by the Office of the State Engineer and serves a primary purpose of 'Other', with a storage capacity of 194 acre-feet. Constructed in 1982 by TRI-STATE GENERATION TRANSMISSION ASSOCIATION, this Earth-type dam stands at 17 feet tall and spans 3440 feet in length.

With a significant hazard potential and high risk assessment rating, Escalante Generating Station Evaporation Pond 5 is closely monitored and inspected by state regulatory agencies to ensure its safety and integrity. The dam's condition was last assessed as satisfactory in June 2019, highlighting the importance of regular maintenance and emergency preparedness. While currently lacking certain features like a spillway, the pond plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region and requires stringent risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards.

As a key component of the water infrastructure in the area, Escalante Generating Station Evaporation Pond 5 serves as a critical resource for water management and conservation efforts. With its significant storage capacity and strategic location near the CASMERO DRAW-OS river, this earthen dam provides essential support to the surrounding community. Continuous monitoring and adherence to safety protocols are essential to ensure the long-term sustainability and reliability of this important water resource in New Mexico.

Year Completed

1982

Dam Length

3440

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

CASMERO DRAW-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17

Drainage Area

0.03

Nid Storage

194

Structural Height

19

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

19
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.