Alessi Flood Control Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Huajatolla Hills Walsenburg Ponds
Last Updated: December 4, 2025
The Alessi Flood Control Dam, located in Walsenburg, Colorado, along the Pictou Arroyo river, was completed in 1970 by the USDA NRCS to primarily reduce flood risks in the area.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet with a structural height of 35 feet and a length of 2197 feet. It has a maximum storage capacity of 224 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 14 acres, serving as a vital infrastructure for flood control in the region.
The dam is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. With a high hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the Alessi Flood Control Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks for the local community. Despite its high risk factor, the dam has been maintained and operated effectively to protect the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
As a significant asset in flood risk reduction, the Alessi Flood Control Dam demonstrates the importance of proactive infrastructure management to safeguard communities from the impacts of extreme weather events and climate change. Its strategic location, design, and capacity contribute to the overall resilience of the region against potential flood hazards, making it a vital piece of water resource infrastructure in Colorado.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
2197 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
PICTOU ARROYO |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14 |
Hydraulic Height |
29 |
Nid Storage |
224 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Alessi Flood Control Dam