Fenton Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Fenton Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in New Mexico. It was completed in 1946 and is 80 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 41 ft (taller than 64.4% in NM) |
| Dam Length | 362 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 721 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 256 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 32 acres |
| Drainage Area | 47 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 23,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1946 (80 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1997 |
| NID ID | NM00177 |
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Fenton Lake Dam?
Fenton Lake 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 Fenton Lake Dam?
Fenton Lake 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 Fenton Lake Dam built?
Fenton Lake Dam was completed in 1946, making it 80 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 Fenton Lake Dam?
Fenton Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation, Fish And Wildlife Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Fenton Lake Dam?
Fenton Lake Dam has a dam height of 41 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 Fenton Lake Dam last inspected?
Fenton Lake Dam was last inspected on June 3, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.