Boca Negra Detention Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Boca Negra Detention Dam, located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, is a vital structure designed by Wilson & Company, Inc.
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Summary
to mitigate flood risks in the area. Completed in 2014, this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and spans 3,560 feet along Boca Negra Arroyo. With a storage capacity of 241 acre-feet and a surface area of 12.1 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing stormwater runoff and protecting the surrounding communities from potential inundation.
Maintained and regulated by the Office of the State Engineer in New Mexico, Boca Negra Detention Dam is subject to regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. The dam's spillway, designed as uncontrolled with a width of 419 feet, can handle a maximum discharge of 37,816 cubic feet per second, highlighting its efficiency in flood control. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment remains satisfactory, further underscoring its importance in safeguarding against potential flood events in the region.
With its strategic location and modern design features, Boca Negra Detention Dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate adaptation efforts. As a key component of flood risk reduction initiatives in Bernalillo County, this dam serves as a crucial infrastructure asset that not only protects the local community but also contributes to the overall resilience of the region in the face of changing climate patterns.
Year Completed |
2014 |
Dam Length |
3560 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
BOCA NEGRA ARROYO |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12.1 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
14.1 |
Nid Storage |
241 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
26 |
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.
Boca Negra Detention Dam