Upper Trout Lake Dam

TR NUTRIAS CREEK· Rio Arriba, New Mexico· Built 1950· Earth· 20 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Fish And Wildlife Pond Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Upper Trout Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in New Mexico. It was completed in 1950 and is 76 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 20 ft (taller than 17.2% in NM)
Dam Length237 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage15 acre-ft
Normal Storage10 acre-ft
Surface Area3 acres
Drainage Area1 sq mi
Year Completed1950 (76 years old)
NID IDNM00706

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: September 26, 2009
State Regulated: No

Ownership

USDA FS

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Upper Trout Lake Dam?

Upper Trout Lake Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Upper Trout Lake Dam?

Upper Trout Lake Dam is owned by USDA FS (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Upper Trout Lake Dam built?

Upper Trout Lake Dam was completed in 1950, making it 76 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 Upper Trout Lake Dam?

Upper Trout Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation, Fish And Wildlife Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Upper Trout Lake Dam?

Upper Trout Lake Dam has a dam height of 20 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 Upper Trout Lake Dam last inspected?

Upper Trout Lake Dam was last inspected on September 26, 2009. 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.