Cuchillo-Negro Dam
Key Takeaway
Cuchillo-Negro Dam is classified as high hazard in New Mexico. It was completed in 1991 and is 35 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 Height | 123 ft (taller than 91.7% in NM) |
| Dam Length | 1,340 ft |
| Dam Type | Roller-Compacted Concrete |
| Max Storage | 20.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Drainage Area | 325 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 235,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1991 (35 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1993 |
| NID ID | NM00541 |
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 TRUTH OR CONSEQUENCES
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Cuchillo-Negro Dam?
Cuchillo-Negro 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 Cuchillo-Negro Dam?
Cuchillo-Negro Dam is owned by CITY OF TRUTH OR CONSEQUENCES (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Cuchillo-Negro Dam built?
Cuchillo-Negro Dam was completed in 1991, making it 35 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 Cuchillo-Negro Dam?
Cuchillo-Negro Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Cuchillo-Negro Dam?
Cuchillo-Negro Dam has a dam height of 123 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 Cuchillo-Negro Dam last inspected?
Cuchillo-Negro Dam was last inspected on March 18, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.