Pappaws

LOS ALAMOS CREEK· Rio Arriba, New Mexico· Earth· 16 ft tall
High Hazard Irrigation Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Pappaws is classified as high hazard in New Mexico. 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 16 ft (taller than 10.1% in NM)
Dam Length389 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Normal Storage0 acre-ft
Surface Area2 acres
NID IDNM00684

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: July 12, 2012
State Regulated: No

Ownership

BIA

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Pappaws?

Pappaws 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 Pappaws?

Pappaws is owned by BIA (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

What is the primary purpose of Pappaws?

Pappaws 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 Pappaws?

Pappaws 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 Pappaws last inspected?

Pappaws was last inspected on July 12, 2012. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.