Black Rock

ZUNI RIVER· McKinley, New Mexico· Built 1908· Earth·
High Hazard Flood Risk Reduction Irrigation Water Supply Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Black Rock is classified as high hazard in New Mexico. It was completed in 1908 and is 118 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 Length780 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Normal Storage2.3K acre-ft
Year Completed1908 (118 years old)
NID IDNM00145

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: August 28, 2012
State Regulated: No

Ownership

BIA

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Black Rock?

Black Rock 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 Black Rock?

Black Rock is owned by BIA (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Black Rock built?

Black Rock was completed in 1908, making it 118 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 Black Rock?

Black Rock serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Irrigation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

When was Black Rock last inspected?

Black Rock was last inspected on August 28, 2012. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.