Bear Canyon Dam
Key Takeaway
Bear Canyon Dam is classified as high hazard in New Mexico. It was completed in 1937 and is 89 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 79 ft (taller than 85.6% in NM) |
| Dam Length | 270 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 685 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 35 acres |
| Drainage Area | 16 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 6,328 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1937 (89 years old) |
| NID ID | NM00374 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
NEW MEXICO DEPARTMENT OF GAME AND FISH
State Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Bear Canyon Dam?
Bear Canyon Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Bear Canyon Dam?
Bear Canyon Dam is owned by NEW MEXICO DEPARTMENT OF GAME AND FISH (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Bear Canyon Dam built?
Bear Canyon Dam was completed in 1937, making it 89 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Bear Canyon Dam?
Bear Canyon Dam serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Bear Canyon Dam?
Bear Canyon Dam has a dam height of 79 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Bear Canyon Dam last inspected?
Bear Canyon Dam was last inspected on April 21, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.