Dulce Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lower Mundo La Jara
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Dulce, also known as Dulce Lake, is a federally owned irrigation reservoir located in Rio Arriba, New Mexico.
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Summary
Managed by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, this earth-type dam was completed in 1903 and serves the primary purpose of irrigation, with additional recreational uses. With a structural height of 30 feet and a length of 710 feet, the reservoir has a normal storage capacity of 480 acre-feet, making it a vital water resource for the region.
Despite being a federal facility, Dulce is not regulated or inspected by the state, but rather falls under the jurisdiction of the Bureau of Indian Affairs. The dam's controlled spillway and high hazard potential highlight the importance of regular inspections and emergency preparedness. The last inspection in 2012 revealed a lack of condition assessment data, indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of this critical water infrastructure.
Overall, Dulce represents an essential water resource in New Mexico, providing vital irrigation water for agricultural activities in the region. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the management and maintenance of dams like Dulce become increasingly important in ensuring sustainable water management practices and resilience to changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1903 |
Dam Length |
710 |
River Or Stream |
DULCE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
480 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
30 |
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.
Dulce