St. Charles Mesa Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

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Summary

Charles Mesa, located in Pueblo, Colorado, is a vital water supply infrastructure owned and regulated by the state. Completed in 1975, this earth dam stands at 16 feet high and serves the primary purpose of water supply for the area. With a storage capacity of 109 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 91 acre-feet, St. Charles Mesa plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, St. Charles Mesa is currently in fair condition as of the last assessment in October 2020. The dam has a hydraulic height of 13 feet and a structural height of 23 feet, with a length of 1970 feet and a surface area of 6 acres. While there are no associated structures, the dam's location on the St. Charles River-OS ensures a reliable water source for the surrounding community.

With state oversight and regular inspections, St. Charles Mesa is well-maintained to meet the water supply needs of Pueblo, Colorado. The risk assessment for this dam is high, emphasizing the importance of continued monitoring and risk management measures. As a crucial part of the water infrastructure in the area, St. Charles Mesa serves as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

1970

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

ST. CHARLES RIVER-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Hydraulic Height

13

Nid Storage

109

Structural Height

23

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

23
       
Seasonal Comparison

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.