Fisher Peak Det. Fpc-1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Fisher Peak Detention Fpc-1, located in Las Animas County, Colorado, is a crucial flood risk reduction structure on the Purgatoire River.


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Summary

Built in 1961 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 80 feet tall and stretches 540 feet in length, with a hydraulic height of 85 feet. With a storage capacity of 338 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 5512 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a vital role in mitigating flood impacts in the region.

Despite its high hazard potential, Fisher Peak Detention Fpc-1 is in satisfactory condition, as confirmed by its last inspection in June 2019. The dam's emergency action plan has been prepared and updated periodically to ensure it meets regulatory guidelines. With a moderate risk level and a strong track record of risk management measures, this structure continues to serve as a reliable safeguard against potential flooding events in the area.

Owned and regulated by local government authorities, Fisher Peak Detention Fpc-1 exemplifies the collaborative effort required to protect communities and natural resources from the impacts of extreme weather events. Its strategic location, design, and operational efficiency make it a key asset in the region's water resource and climate resilience initiatives, highlighting the importance of maintaining and investing in critical infrastructure for a sustainable future.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

540

Dam Height

80

River Or Stream

PURGATOIRE RIVER-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

85

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

338

Structural Height

85

Outlet Gates

Needle - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

85
       
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.