Lower Nielson Retarding Dam
Key Takeaway
Lower Nielson Retarding Dam is classified as high hazard in New Mexico. It was completed in 1987 and is 39 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 | 22 ft (taller than 22.4% in NM) |
| Dam Length | 300 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 150 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 14 acres |
| Drainage Area | 6 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,500 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1987 (39 years old) |
| NID ID | NM00489 |
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
BLUEWATER WATER & SANITATION DISTRICT
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 39 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lower Nielson Retarding Dam?
Lower Nielson Retarding 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 Lower Nielson Retarding Dam?
Lower Nielson Retarding Dam is owned by BLUEWATER WATER & SANITATION DISTRICT (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lower Nielson Retarding Dam built?
Lower Nielson Retarding 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 Lower Nielson Retarding Dam?
Lower Nielson Retarding 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 Lower Nielson Retarding Dam?
Lower Nielson Retarding Dam has a dam height of 22 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 Lower Nielson Retarding Dam last inspected?
Lower Nielson Retarding Dam was last inspected on November 5, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.