Echo Canyon Reservoir Report
Nearby: Pinon Lake Town Center
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Echo Canyon is a state-regulated dam located in Archuleta County, Colorado, specifically in the city of Trujillo.
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Summary
Completed in 1969, this earth-type structure stands at a height of 82 feet and spans 300 feet in length, serving primarily for recreational purposes such as fish and wildlife pond management. With a storage capacity of 3,063 acre-feet and a surface area of 118 acres, Echo Canyon presents a significant hazard potential and is assessed to be in fair condition as of November 2020.
Managed by the Colorado Department of Water Resources (DWR), Echo Canyon dam is equipped with a slide (sluice gate) outlet gate and an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 76 feet. The dam's maximum discharge capacity is 5,352 cubic feet per second, making it crucial for flood control and water resource management in the region. Despite its moderate risk assessment level, the dam undergoes inspections every two years to ensure its structural integrity and adherence to safety guidelines.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Echo Canyon offers a fascinating case study in dam engineering and management, showcasing the intersection of recreational use and critical infrastructure for environmental conservation. Its location in the picturesque Echo Canyon, along with its role in supporting fish and wildlife habitats, highlights the complex balance between human recreation and ecological preservation in water resource projects. As one of the key structures in the area, Echo Canyon dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions and growing demands on water resources.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
68 |
River Or Stream |
ECHO CANYON |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
118 |
Hydraulic Height |
68 |
Drainage Area |
10 |
Nid Storage |
3063 |
Structural Height |
82 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
82 |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Pagosa Riverside Campground
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Blanco River
|
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Blanco River Group Campground
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Echo Canyon