La Mesilla Site 1 Dam
Key Takeaway
La Mesilla Site 1 Dam is classified as high hazard in New Mexico. It was completed in 1970 and is 56 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 | 33 ft (taller than 52.1% in NM) |
| Dam Length | 910 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 309 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 11 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 170 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1970 (56 years old) |
| NID ID | NM00235 |
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
LA MESILLA COMMUNITY DITCH
Local Government
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High Hazard 39 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of La Mesilla Site 1 Dam?
La Mesilla Site 1 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 La Mesilla Site 1 Dam?
La Mesilla Site 1 Dam is owned by LA MESILLA COMMUNITY DITCH (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was La Mesilla Site 1 Dam built?
La Mesilla Site 1 Dam was completed in 1970, making it 56 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 La Mesilla Site 1 Dam?
La Mesilla Site 1 Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is La Mesilla Site 1 Dam?
La Mesilla Site 1 Dam has a dam height of 33 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 La Mesilla Site 1 Dam last inspected?
La Mesilla Site 1 Dam was last inspected on May 4, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.