Adobe Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Bent County, Colorado, Adobe Creek, also known as Blue Lake, is a privately owned irrigation structure designed by the USDA NRCS.


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Summary

Completed in 1904, this earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet and stretches 7375 feet in length, providing essential water storage for irrigation purposes. With a storage capacity of 122,360 acre-feet, the dam serves as a crucial resource for the surrounding area, covering a drainage area of 53 square miles.

Managed by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, Adobe Creek is regulated and inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. The dam boasts a spillway width of 1200 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 72,000 cubic feet per second, making it a significant asset for flood control and water management in the region. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment remains satisfactory, with a moderate risk level assigned to it.

With its strategic location in Las Animas and primary purpose of irrigation, Adobe Creek plays a vital role in supporting agricultural activities and recreation in the area. As a key water resource in Colorado, this earth dam continues to be a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, showcasing the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1904

Dam Length

7375

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

ADOBE CREEK-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5094

Hydraulic Height

32

Drainage Area

53

Nid Storage

122360

Structural Height

41

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

41
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.