La Tierra Grande Dam

RIO BRAZOS· Rio Arriba, New Mexico· Built 1991· Earth· 28 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Fire Protection Stock Or Small Fish Pond Private

Key Takeaway

La Tierra Grande Dam is classified as significant hazard in New Mexico. It was completed in 1991 and is 35 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 28 ft (taller than 38.7% in NM)
Dam Length1,080 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage127 acre-ft
Normal Storage47 acre-ft
Surface Area7 acres
Drainage Area6 sq mi
Max Discharge8,000 cfs
Year Completed1991 (35 years old)
NID IDNM00560

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: June 18, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: OFFICE OF THE STATE ENGINEER

Ownership

CLIFF MILLER

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of La Tierra Grande Dam?

La Tierra Grande Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates La Tierra Grande Dam?

La Tierra Grande Dam is owned by CLIFF MILLER (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was La Tierra Grande Dam built?

La Tierra Grande Dam was completed in 1991, making it 35 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 Tierra Grande Dam?

La Tierra Grande Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation, Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is La Tierra Grande Dam?

La Tierra Grande Dam has a dam height of 28 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 Tierra Grande Dam last inspected?

La Tierra Grande Dam was last inspected on June 18, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.