News Release Archive

Reclamation draining Avalon Reservoir for maintenance

Media Contact: Mary Carlson, (505)462-3576, mcarlson@usbr.gov

For Release: November 21, 2018

CARLSBAD, N.M. – The Bureau of Reclamation is in the process of draining water from Avalon Reservoir so the Carlsbad Irrigation District can conduct required maintenance on the dam.

The reservoir is located about 13 miles north of Carlsbad. It was also drained last winter for similar purposes. During that time, Reclamation and Carlsbad Irrigation District staff noticed signs of four-wheeling within the reservoir pool and vehicles stuck in the mud.

“We want to remind everyone that this kind of activity is prohibited. Four-wheeling or any activity in a dry reservoir can be very dangerous as water levels can rise in an instant with water flowing from upstream or with inflow from other sources such as nearby arroyos. The surface may look stable but underneath the mud could be sticky, making it difficult for vehicles and people to get out,” said Jim Wilber, Deputy Area Manager of the Bureau of Reclamation’s Albuquerque Area Office.

Avalon Reservoir will be filled with water from nearby Brantley Reservoir late this winter or early this spring in preparation for the next irrigation season.

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The Bureau of Reclamation is a federal agency under the U.S. Department of the Interior and is the nation's largest wholesale water supplier and second largest producer of hydroelectric power. Our facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation opportunities, and environmental benefits. Visit our website at https://www.usbr.gov and follow us on Twitter @USBR; Facebook @bureau.of.reclamation; LinkedIn @Bureau of Reclamation; Instagram @bureau_of_reclamation; and YouTube @reclamation.