Eagle Nest Dam
Key Takeaway
Eagle Nest Dam is classified as high hazard in New Mexico. It was completed in 1918 and is 108 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. 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 | 140 ft (taller than 93.9% in NM) |
| Dam Length | 400 ft |
| Dam Type | Arch |
| Max Storage | 98.4K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 81.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 2,496 acres |
| Drainage Area | 185 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,990 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1918 (108 years old) |
| NID ID | NM00351 |
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
NEW MEXICO DEPARTMENT OF GAME AND FISH
State Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Eagle Nest Dam?
Eagle Nest 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 Eagle Nest Dam?
Eagle Nest 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 Eagle Nest Dam built?
Eagle Nest Dam was completed in 1918, making it 108 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 Eagle Nest Dam?
Eagle Nest Dam serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Eagle Nest Dam?
Eagle Nest Dam has a dam height of 140 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 Eagle Nest Dam last inspected?
Eagle Nest Dam was last inspected on May 21, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.