Sand Hill Arroyo Dam
Key Takeaway
Sand Hill Arroyo Dam is classified as high hazard in New Mexico. It was completed in 1957 and is 69 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 | 27 ft (taller than 35.9% in NM) |
| Dam Length | 1,300 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 424 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 27 acres |
| Drainage Area | 13 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 18,250 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1957 (69 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1997 |
| NID ID | NM00282 |
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 LAS CRUCES
Local Government
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High Hazard 48 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Sand Hill Arroyo Dam?
Sand Hill Arroyo 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 Sand Hill Arroyo Dam?
Sand Hill Arroyo Dam is owned by CITY OF LAS CRUCES (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Sand Hill Arroyo Dam built?
Sand Hill Arroyo Dam was completed in 1957, making it 69 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 Sand Hill Arroyo Dam?
Sand Hill Arroyo 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 Sand Hill Arroyo Dam?
Sand Hill Arroyo Dam has a dam height of 27 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 Sand Hill Arroyo Dam last inspected?
Sand Hill Arroyo Dam was last inspected on February 27, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.