El Vado
Key Takeaway
El Vado is classified as high hazard in New Mexico. It was completed in 1934 and is 92 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 | 230 ft (taller than 97.2% in NM) |
| Dam Length | 1,326 ft |
| Dam Type | Other |
| Max Storage | 209.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 196.3K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 3,380 acres |
| Drainage Area | 690 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 17,800 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1934 (92 years old) |
| NID ID | NM10008 |
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
RECLAMATION
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of El Vado?
El Vado 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 El Vado?
El Vado is owned by RECLAMATION (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was El Vado built?
El Vado was completed in 1934, making it 92 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 El Vado?
El Vado serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is El Vado?
El Vado has a dam height of 230 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 El Vado last inspected?
El Vado was last inspected on July 28, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.