Intrepid Potash Ponds 1-5 Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
Intrepid Potash Ponds 1-5 Dam, located in rural Eddy, New Mexico, is a private earth dam primarily used for tailings storage along the Pecos River.
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Summary
With a height of 12 feet and a storage capacity of 313 acre-feet, this dam poses a significant hazard potential and has been assessed to be in poor condition as of February 2019. Despite its design as an uncontrolled spillway type, the dam has a surface area of 26.1 acres and is regulated by the Office of the State Engineer in New Mexico.
The dam, part of the Intrepid Potash mining operation, has a history of state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. However, the last inspection in February 2019 revealed poor conditions, indicating a need for maintenance and potential upgrades to ensure the safety and stability of the structure. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, and emergency action plans may need to be developed or revised to meet guidelines for effective response in case of a breach or other emergency situation.
In the context of water resource and climate management, the Intrepid Potash Ponds 1-5 Dam represents a critical infrastructure for tailings storage and water management in the region. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure resilience, it is essential for private owners, regulators, and stakeholders to collaborate on monitoring, maintaining, and improving the safety and functionality of dams like this one to mitigate risks and ensure sustainable water management practices in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
PECOS RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
26.1 |
Nid Storage |
313 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
12 |
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.
Intrepid Potash Ponds 1-5 Dam