San Mateo Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
San Mateo Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in New Mexico. It was completed in 1935 and is 91 years old. 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 | 47 ft (taller than 69% in NM) |
| Dam Length | 350 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 90 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 70 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 7 acres |
| Drainage Area | 8 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 3,100 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1935 (91 years old) |
| NID ID | NM00356 |
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
SAN MATEO COMMUNITY DITCH
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of San Mateo Lake Dam?
San Mateo 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 San Mateo Lake Dam?
San Mateo Lake Dam is owned by SAN MATEO COMMUNITY DITCH (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was San Mateo Lake Dam built?
San Mateo Lake Dam was completed in 1935, making it 91 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 San Mateo Lake Dam?
San Mateo Lake Dam 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 San Mateo Lake Dam?
San Mateo Lake Dam has a dam height of 47 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 San Mateo Lake Dam last inspected?
San Mateo Lake Dam was last inspected on October 3, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.