James Canyon Dam
Key Takeaway
James Canyon Dam is classified as low hazard in New Mexico. It was completed in 2002 and is 24 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 65 ft (taller than 81.6% in NM) |
| Dam Length | 526 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 980 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 209 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 17 acres |
| Drainage Area | 26 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 39,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 2002 (24 years old) |
| NID ID | NM00603 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
FREEPORT MCMORAN CORPORATION
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of James Canyon Dam?
James Canyon Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates James Canyon Dam?
James Canyon Dam is owned by FREEPORT MCMORAN CORPORATION (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was James Canyon Dam built?
James Canyon Dam was completed in 2002, making it 24 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 James Canyon Dam?
James Canyon Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is James Canyon Dam?
James Canyon Dam has a dam height of 65 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 James Canyon Dam last inspected?
James Canyon Dam was last inspected on June 30, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.