Upper Trout Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Upper Trout Lake Dam, located in Rio Arriba, New Mexico, is a Federal-owned structure managed by the USDA Forest Service.


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Summary

Built in 1950, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 20 feet and serves primarily for recreation purposes, including fish and wildlife pond activities. With a storage capacity of 15 acre-feet and a surface area of 3 acres, the dam is situated on the TR Nutrias Creek near PVT Ranch.

The dam's spillway is controlled and has a width of 2 feet, while the outlet gates are of the "Other Controlled" type. Despite being categorized as having a significant hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment remains unrated as of the last inspection in September 2009. The risk assessment for Upper Trout Lake Dam indicates a very high risk level, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its safety and integrity for both water resource and climate enthusiasts.

In conclusion, Upper Trout Lake Dam offers a recreational oasis in the midst of New Mexico's natural beauty, providing a serene setting for outdoor activities. While its risk potential is deemed significant, continued efforts by the Forest Service and other relevant authorities are essential to safeguard the dam and its surrounding environment. For those interested in water resource management and climate resilience, Upper Trout Lake Dam serves as a fascinating case study in balancing recreational enjoyment with the need for responsible infrastructure maintenance.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

237

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR NUTRIAS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

19

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

15

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

20
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.