Sanchez Reservoir Report
Nearby: Salazar #1 Sanchez Stabilizing
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Sanchez is a privately owned dam located in San Luis, Colorado, with a primary purpose of irrigation.
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Summary
Built in 1911, this Earth dam stands at a height of 130 feet and has a storage capacity of 137,850 acre-feet. The dam overlooks Ventero Creek and serves multiple purposes including fish and wildlife pond creation, irrigation, and recreation. With a surface area of 3,145 acres and a drainage area of 86 square miles, Sanchez plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.
Despite its significant storage capacity and vital functions, Sanchez faces challenges in terms of safety and maintenance. The dam has a high hazard potential and is currently assessed as unsatisfactory in condition. Its spillway is uncontrolled and has a width of 120 feet. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status is unclear, and there are no recent inundation maps prepared. With a risk assessment rating of moderate (3), Sanchez requires careful risk management and regular inspections to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and environment.
Sanchez's structural height of 137 feet and maximum discharge capacity of 8,850 cubic feet per second highlight its importance in managing water flow and storage in the area. As a key irrigation infrastructure, it not only supports agricultural activities but also provides opportunities for wildlife habitat creation and recreational activities. However, the dam's current condition and risk assessment underscore the need for ongoing monitoring, maintenance, and emergency preparedness to safeguard its integrity and the well-being of downstream communities.
Year Completed |
1911 |
Dam Length |
1170 |
Dam Height |
130 |
River Or Stream |
VENTERO CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3145 |
Hydraulic Height |
127 |
Drainage Area |
86 |
Nid Storage |
137850 |
Structural Height |
137 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 3, Valve - 6 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
137 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Sanchez