La Jara Reservoir Report
Nearby: Stone Lake Dulce
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
La Jara is a Federal-owned structure located in Rio Arriba, New Mexico, specifically on La Jara Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1900, this Earth-type dam stands at 27 feet tall and spans 593 feet in length, serving primarily as a Fish and Wildlife Pond. With a storage capacity of 600 acre-feet, the dam has a high hazard potential and is subject to an inspection frequency of every 5 years.
Managed by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, La Jara plays a crucial role in fire protection, stock, and fishery enhancement in the region. Despite its age, the dam has not undergone recent condition assessments, but emergency action plans and risk management measures are in place to address any potential hazards. With a very high risk assessment rating, the dam is closely monitored to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and ecosystems.
In the event of an emergency, the dam's controlled spillway and high hazard potential highlight the need for proactive risk management and emergency preparedness. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the importance of structures like La Jara is key to safeguarding our natural resources and enhancing biodiversity in the region.
Year Completed |
1900 |
Dam Length |
593 |
River Or Stream |
LA JARA CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
600 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Rio Chama Below El Vado Dam
|
707cfs |
Rio Chama Near La Puente
|
56cfs |
Navajo River Bl Oso Diversion Dam Nr Chromo
|
41cfs |
San Juan River Near Carracas
|
194cfs |
Navajo R At Banded Peak Ranch
|
41cfs |
Piedra River Near Arboles
|
113cfs |
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.
La Jara