Rio Grande Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Rio Grande dam, also known as Farmers Union, is a vital structure located in Hinsdale, Colorado, serving the primary purpose of irrigation.


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Summary

Completed in 1914, this earth dam stands at a height of 111 feet and has a length of 980 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 73,800 acre-feet. The reservoir's normal storage capacity is 54,082 acre-feet, providing water for fish and wildlife ponds, irrigation, and recreational activities in the region.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Colorado Division of Water Resources, the Rio Grande dam has a high hazard potential and has been assessed to be in fair condition as of July 2020. With a maximum discharge capacity of 15,140 cubic feet per second, the dam's uncontrolled spillway with a width of 32 feet helps manage floodwaters effectively. Despite its moderate risk rating, the dam continues to play a crucial role in water resource management and conservation efforts along the Rio Grande River.

Enthusiasts interested in water resources and climate in the area should take note of the Rio Grande dam's significance in providing water for irrigation, wildlife, and recreation in the region. Its history, structural details, and regulatory oversight offer valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing water infrastructure management in Colorado. With a focus on sustainability and risk mitigation, the Rio Grande dam exemplifies the careful balance between harnessing water resources for human use while protecting the environment and local communities from potential hazards.

Year Completed

1914

Dam Length

980

Dam Height

111

River Or Stream

RIO GRANDE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1080

Hydraulic Height

111

Drainage Area

168

Nid Storage

73800

Structural Height

117

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 6

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

117
       
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.