Clayton Dam
Key Takeaway
Clayton Dam is classified as low hazard in New Mexico. It was completed in 1955 and is 71 years old. Its primary use is recreation.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 82 ft (taller than 86.8% in NM) |
| Dam Length | 720 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 6.6K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 4.1K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 175 acres |
| Drainage Area | 112 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 24,700 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1955 (71 years old) |
| NID ID | NM00294 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
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 Clayton Dam?
Clayton Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Clayton Dam?
Clayton 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 Clayton Dam built?
Clayton Dam was completed in 1955, making it 71 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 Clayton Dam?
Clayton Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Clayton Dam?
Clayton Dam has a dam height of 82 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 Clayton Dam last inspected?
Clayton Dam was last inspected on September 4, 2014. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.