Porter Whisenhunt Dam
Key Takeaway
Porter Whisenhunt Dam is classified as high hazard in New Mexico. It was completed in 1959 and is 67 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 | 19 ft (taller than 15% in NM) |
| Dam Length | 2,900 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 191 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 17 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 3,350 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1959 (67 years old) |
| NID ID | NM00279 |
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
PORTER, BILL 575-644-8131 PAUL CASTLE 575-545-1082
Private
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High Hazard 26 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Porter Whisenhunt Dam?
Porter Whisenhunt 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 Porter Whisenhunt Dam?
Porter Whisenhunt Dam is owned by PORTER, BILL 575-644-8131 PAUL CASTLE 575-545-1082 (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Porter Whisenhunt Dam built?
Porter Whisenhunt Dam was completed in 1959, making it 67 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 Porter Whisenhunt Dam?
Porter Whisenhunt 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 Porter Whisenhunt Dam?
Porter Whisenhunt Dam has a dam height of 19 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 Porter Whisenhunt Dam last inspected?
Porter Whisenhunt Dam was last inspected on February 25, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.