Don Felipe Detention Dam
Key Takeaway
Don Felipe Detention Dam is classified as high hazard in New Mexico. It was completed in 1989 and is 37 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 | 32 ft (taller than 50% in NM) |
| Dam Length | 2,600 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 525 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 25 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 18,500 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1989 (37 years old) |
| NID ID | NM00458 |
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
ALBUQUERQUE METRO ARROYO FLOOD CONTROL AUTHORITY
Local Government
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High Hazard 20 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Don Felipe Detention Dam?
Don Felipe Detention 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 Don Felipe Detention Dam?
Don Felipe Detention Dam is owned by ALBUQUERQUE METRO ARROYO FLOOD CONTROL AUTHORITY (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Don Felipe Detention Dam built?
Don Felipe Detention Dam was completed in 1989, making it 37 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 Don Felipe Detention Dam?
Don Felipe Detention 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 Don Felipe Detention Dam?
Don Felipe Detention Dam has a dam height of 32 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 Don Felipe Detention Dam last inspected?
Don Felipe Detention Dam was last inspected on December 5, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.