Santa Rosa Dam and Lake was authorized by the Flood Control Act of 1954. The Project consists of an earthfill dam about 7 miles north of Santa Rosa, New Mexico. The main embankment was completed in the spring of 1981. Dam construction and development of the area was a $43 million federal project.
Santa Rosa Dam is the first major dam along the Pecos River, with a 2,434 square mile contributing drainage area. It is a main component in the Pecos River Basin comprehensive plan, providing irrigation storage, flood control and sediment retention.
Santa Rosa Lake is a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers managed lake, however the campgrounds and most recreation areas are managed by New Mexico State Parks.
Federal Recreation Passports for these areas are not accepted.
Geocaching is permitted at Santa Rosa Lake only with the approval of the project manager.
Area Weather: Current weather conditions for Santa Rosa Lake.
New Mexico Fishing Regulations and Weekly Fishing Reports
Protect Your Waters and Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers!
As Americans, we love to spend time on the water. Protecting these resources is an important part of our overall enjoyment. A concern we must all address is the spreading of harmful plants, animals and other organisms. These aquatic nuisance species can hitch a ride on our clothing, boats, and items used in the water. When we go to another lake or stream, the nuisance species can be released. And, if the conditions are right, these introduced species can become established and create drastic results.
So what can we do? By following a simple procedure each time we leave the water, we can help stop aquatic hitchhikers.
Three easy steps: Clean, Drain & Dry
Step 1 – Clean: Remove all visible mud, plants, fish/animals. Examine all your equipment, boats, trailers, clothing, boots, buckets, etc.
Step 2 – Drain: Eliminate water from all equipment before transporting anywhere. Much of the recreational equipment used in water contains many spots where water can collect and potentially harbor these aquatic hitchhikers.
Step 3 – Dry: Clean and DRY anything that came in contact with the water, such as boats, trailers, equipment, dogs, boots, clothing, etc.
Check out Protect Your Waters for more information and details!
New Mexico Specific Information:
Aquatic Invasive Species Decontamination Unit Locations in N.M.