Mariposa Dam
Key Takeaway
Mariposa Dam is classified as high hazard in New Mexico. It was completed in 1983 and is 43 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 | 16 ft (taller than 10.1% in NM) |
| Dam Length | 5,150 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 670 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 45 acres |
| Drainage Area | 21 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 4,500 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1983 (43 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1994 |
| NID ID | NM00473 |
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
CITY OF ALBUQUERQUE
Local Government
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High Hazard 20 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Mariposa Dam?
Mariposa 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 Mariposa Dam?
Mariposa Dam is owned by CITY OF ALBUQUERQUE (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Mariposa Dam built?
Mariposa Dam was completed in 1983, making it 43 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 Mariposa Dam?
Mariposa 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 Mariposa Dam?
Mariposa Dam has a dam height of 16 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 Mariposa Dam last inspected?
Mariposa Dam was last inspected on September 2, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.