Bonito Dam
Key Takeaway
Bonito Dam is classified as high hazard in New Mexico. It was completed in 1930 and is 96 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 113 ft (taller than 91.1% in NM) |
| Dam Length | 480 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Normal Storage | 1.2K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 39 acres |
| Drainage Area | 34 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 66,600 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1930 (96 years old) |
| NID ID | NM00249 |
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
CITY OF ALAMOGORDO
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Bonito Dam?
Bonito 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 Bonito Dam?
Bonito Dam is owned by CITY OF ALAMOGORDO (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Bonito Dam built?
Bonito Dam was completed in 1930, making it 96 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 Bonito Dam?
Bonito Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Bonito Dam?
Bonito Dam has a dam height of 113 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 Bonito Dam last inspected?
Bonito Dam was last inspected on April 30, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.