Grindstone Canyon Dam
Key Takeaway
Grindstone Canyon Dam is classified as high hazard in New Mexico. It was completed in 1987 and is 39 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 1,304 ft |
| Dam Type | Roller-Compacted Concrete |
| Max Storage | 1.7K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 39 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 11,240 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1987 (39 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2015 |
| NID ID | NM00513 |
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
VILLAGE OF RUIDOSO
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Grindstone Canyon Dam?
Grindstone Canyon 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 Grindstone Canyon Dam?
Grindstone Canyon Dam is owned by VILLAGE OF RUIDOSO (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Grindstone Canyon Dam built?
Grindstone Canyon Dam was completed in 1987, making it 39 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 Grindstone Canyon Dam?
Grindstone Canyon Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Grindstone Canyon Dam?
Grindstone Canyon 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 Grindstone Canyon Dam last inspected?
Grindstone Canyon Dam was last inspected on April 30, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.