Ute Dam
Key Takeaway
Ute Dam is classified as high hazard in New Mexico. It was completed in 1963 and is 63 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 132 ft (taller than 92.9% in NM) |
| Dam Length | 6,570 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 464.2K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 222.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 7,200 acres |
| Drainage Area | 10,550 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 705,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1963 (63 years old) |
| NID ID | NM00293 |
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
NEW MEXICO INTERSTATE STREAM COMMISSION
State Government
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Ute Dam?
Ute 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 Ute Dam?
Ute Dam is owned by NEW MEXICO INTERSTATE STREAM COMMISSION (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Ute Dam built?
Ute Dam was completed in 1963, making it 63 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 Ute Dam?
Ute Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply, Irrigation, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Ute Dam?
Ute Dam has a dam height of 132 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 Ute Dam last inspected?
Ute Dam was last inspected on May 9, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.