Rio Puerco Det Dam 132 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

Rio Puerco Det Dam 132, located in Sandoval, New Mexico, serves as a critical debris control structure along the ARROYO CHIJUILLA.


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Summary

Built in 1963 by the Bureau of Land Management, this gravity dam stands at a hydraulic height of 22 feet and a structural height of 27 feet, with a length of 2240 feet. It has a maximum storage capacity of 44.8 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 8.4 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 7 acres. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has not been rated for its condition assessment.

This federal-owned dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating debris flow in the region. Operated and funded by the Bureau of Land Management, Rio Puerco Det Dam 132 has not undergone any major modifications since its construction. While it currently does not have a designated spillway or outlet gates, it is inspected every 5 years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status and risk assessment measures remain unaddressed, highlighting the need for proactive management and preparedness in the face of potential emergencies.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Rio Puerco Det Dam 132 offers a fascinating glimpse into the intricate infrastructure designed to protect and regulate water flow in the area. With its historical significance dating back to the 1960s, this gravity dam continues to play a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance and safeguarding local communities from the impacts of debris flow. As discussions around climate change and water management intensify, understanding the functionality and condition of dams like Rio Puerco Det Dam 132 becomes increasingly crucial for ensuring sustainable water resource management practices in the future.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

2240

River Or Stream

ARROYO CHIJUILLA

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

22

Nid Storage

44.8

Structural Height

27

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

27
       
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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.