Lower Vallecito Dam
Key Takeaway
Lower Vallecito Dam is classified as high hazard in New Mexico. It was completed in 1947 and is 79 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. 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 | 229 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 80 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 49 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 5 acres |
| Drainage Area | 16 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 362 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1947 (79 years old) |
| NID ID | NM00301 |
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
PONDEROSA DITCH ASSOCIATION
Local Government
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lower Vallecito Dam?
Lower Vallecito 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 Vallecito Dam?
Lower Vallecito Dam is owned by PONDEROSA DITCH ASSOCIATION (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lower Vallecito Dam built?
Lower Vallecito Dam was completed in 1947, making it 79 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 Vallecito Dam?
Lower Vallecito Dam serves the following purposes: Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Lower Vallecito Dam?
Lower Vallecito 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 Lower Vallecito Dam last inspected?
Lower Vallecito Dam was last inspected on June 3, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.