Summary
Built in 1972 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 30 feet high, with a storage capacity of 170 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is irrigation, but it also serves for fire protection, stock, and small fish ponds, as well as fish and wildlife habitat.
With a hazard potential rated as low and a fair condition assessment, Paradise is considered a relatively safe structure. However, it is located in a high-risk area, with a drainage area of 14 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 2450 cubic feet per second. The dam has no spillway and is inspected every 6 years by the DWR to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Despite its remote location in Saguache County, Paradise plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the region. With its modest surface area of 13 acres and normal storage capacity of 105 acre-feet, this dam continues to provide essential water resources for the local community while contributing to the conservation of fish and wildlife habitats in the area.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
255 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
NORTH FORK CARNERO CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13 |
Hydraulic Height |
27 |
Drainage Area |
14 |
Nid Storage |
170 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
30 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Storm King
|
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Storm King Campground
|
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Carnero Guard Station Cabin
|
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Poso Campground
|
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Poso
|
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Penitente Canyon Site 26
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Paradise
Confluence Of North, Middle And South Forks (Sec 4, T43N, R3E) To Nf Boundary (Sec 17, T44N, R4E)