Nichols Dam
Key Takeaway
Nichols Dam is classified as high hazard in New Mexico. It was completed in 1943 and is 83 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 91 ft (taller than 89% in NM) |
| Dam Length | 622 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.2K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 679 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 30 acres |
| Drainage Area | 22 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 19,690 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1943 (83 years old) |
| NID ID | NM00241 |
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 SANTA FE
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Nichols Dam?
Nichols 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 Nichols Dam?
Nichols Dam is owned by CITY OF SANTA FE (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Nichols Dam built?
Nichols Dam was completed in 1943, making it 83 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 Nichols Dam?
Nichols Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Nichols Dam?
Nichols Dam has a dam height of 91 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 Nichols Dam last inspected?
Nichols Dam was last inspected on June 25, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.