Mcgaffey Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Mcgaffey Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in New Mexico. It was completed in 1937 and is 89 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 26 ft (taller than 32.2% in NM) |
| Dam Length | 417 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 216 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 110 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 15 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,600 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1937 (89 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1954 |
| NID ID | NM00156 |
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
NEW MEXICO DEPARTMENT OF GAME AND FISH
State Government
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Mcgaffey Lake Dam?
Mcgaffey Lake 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 Mcgaffey Lake Dam?
Mcgaffey Lake Dam is owned by NEW MEXICO DEPARTMENT OF GAME AND FISH (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Mcgaffey Lake Dam built?
Mcgaffey Lake Dam was completed in 1937, making it 89 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 Mcgaffey Lake Dam?
Mcgaffey Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Mcgaffey Lake Dam?
Mcgaffey Lake Dam has a dam height of 26 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 Mcgaffey Lake Dam last inspected?
Mcgaffey Lake Dam was last inspected on April 18, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.