Picacho South Dam
Key Takeaway
Picacho South Dam is classified as high hazard in New Mexico. It was completed in 1954 and is 72 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 | 28 ft (taller than 38.7% in NM) |
| Dam Length | 1,630 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 560 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 48 acres |
| Drainage Area | 9 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,350 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1954 (72 years old) |
| NID ID | NM00011 |
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
ELEPHANT BUTTE IRRIGATION DISTRICT
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Picacho North Dam
Doña Ana, NM
High Hazard 42 ftDona Ana Site 2
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High Hazard 31 ftDona Ana Site 1
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High Hazard 37 ftLas Cruces Dam
Doña Ana, NM
High Hazard 67 ftSand Hill Arroyo Dam
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High Hazard 27 ftLeasburg Arroyo Dam
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Significant Hazard 25 ftMesilla Diversion
Doña Ana, NM
Low Hazard 22 ftTortugas Site 2 Dam
Doña Ana, NM
High Hazard 23 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Picacho South Dam?
Picacho South 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 Picacho South Dam?
Picacho South Dam is owned by ELEPHANT BUTTE IRRIGATION DISTRICT (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Picacho South Dam built?
Picacho South Dam was completed in 1954, making it 72 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 Picacho South Dam?
Picacho South 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 Picacho South Dam?
Picacho South Dam has a dam height of 28 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 Picacho South Dam last inspected?
Picacho South Dam was last inspected on December 17, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.