Ruedi Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Basalt, Colorado, the Ruedi dam on the Fryingpan River is a key water resource managed by the Bureau of Reclamation.


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Summary

Completed in 1968, this earth-filled dam stands at an impressive height of 322 feet and has a storage capacity of 119,007 acre-feet. Serving multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, recreation, and water supply, Ruedi plays a crucial role in water management in the region.

The dam's regulated operations are overseen by the Bureau of Reclamation, ensuring compliance with state regulations and permitting requirements. With a high hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating, the dam's emergency action plan is periodically reviewed and updated to meet guidelines. Equipped with a spillway type classified as uncontrolled, the dam features six outlet valves to manage water discharge and maintain operational safety.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Ruedi represents a fascinating intersection of engineering, environmental stewardship, and water management practices. As climate change impacts water availability and quality, the sustainable management and operation of dams like Ruedi are crucial for ensuring water security and resilience in the face of changing conditions.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

1042

Dam Height

291

River Or Stream

FRYINGPAN RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1110

Hydraulic Height

301

Drainage Area

226

Nid Storage

119007

Structural Height

322

Outlet Gates

Valve - 6

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

322
       
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.