Blue Mesa Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Blue Mesa Reservoir is located in Colorado and was created by the construction of the Blue Mesa Dam in the 1960s.


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Summary

It is the largest body of water in Colorado, with a capacity of 940,000 acre-feet. The reservoir is fed by two primary flow sources, the Gunnison River and the Cimarron River, which provide surface flow into the reservoir. Snowmelt from the surrounding mountains also contributes to the reservoir's water supply. The water from the reservoir is primarily used for agricultural and recreational purposes, including irrigation and fishing. The reservoir is home to a variety of fish species, including kokanee salmon, rainbow trout, and brown trout, making it a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. Additionally, the reservoir's surrounding area offers opportunities for camping, hiking, and water sports.

Reservoir Details

Storage 24hr Change 0.0%
Percent of Normal 74%
Minimum 6,502.0 acre-ft
1966-01-31
Maximum 831,720.813 acre-ft
1970-07-08
Average 551,766 acre-ft
Nid_Height 390
Hydraulic_Height 342
Primary_Dam_Type Earth
Drainage_Area 3470
Year_Completed 1965
Dam_Height 390
Structural_Height 390
River_Or_Stream GUNNISON RIVER
Foundations Rock
Surface_Area 9180
Hazard_Potential High
Outlet_Gates Roller, Tainter (radial), Vertical Lift
Nid_Storage 940700
Dam_Length 785
       
Seasonal Comparison
Storage Levels
Storage Levels
Pool Elevation Levels
Total Release Levels
Inflow Levels

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.