Shortly after, in May-June 1958, high spring runoff in the Jemez Mountains filled the reservoir to 71,220 acre-feet.

[3] In 2001, the pool was gradually drained in order to deliver sediment directly downstream to the sediment-deficient Rio Grande and increase water availability.

Today, without sediment control or recreation functions, the dam operates solely for flood-control purposes.

[4] Recreation was historically high when there was a permanent pool of 2,000-3,000 acre feet due to its proximity to the growing Albuquerque metropolitan area.

All land surrounding the reservoir, including a small day-use area with picnic facilities and a scenic overlook, is the property of Santa Ana Pueblo.