A. M. Puett Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

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Summary

M. Puett, also known as Little Summit, is a privately owned dam in Montezuma County, Colorado, designed by the USDA NRCS. Completed in 1960, this earth dam primarily serves irrigation purposes, with additional functions for fish and wildlife ponds and recreation. The dam stands at a height of 43 feet, with a hydraulic height of 44 feet and a structural height of 52 feet, encompassing a length of 1895 feet and a surface area of 163 acres.

Located in the Cash Canyon watershed, A. M. Puett has a significant hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of the last inspection in October 2019. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 2394 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 1950 cubic feet per second. Despite being privately owned, the dam is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, with permitting, inspection, and enforcement mechanisms in place to ensure its safe operation.

As a crucial water resource infrastructure in the region, A. M. Puett plays a vital role in supporting agricultural irrigation and enhancing local ecosystems. With a moderate risk assessment rating and a spillway type of uncontrolled, the dam continues to be monitored and maintained to mitigate potential risks and protect downstream communities from flooding events. Its history, design, and operational significance make A. M. Puett a noteworthy structure for water resource and climate enthusiasts to study and appreciate.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

1895

Dam Height

43

River Or Stream

CASH CANYON-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

163

Hydraulic Height

44

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

3209

Structural Height

52

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

52
       
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.