Platoro Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Platoro, located in Conejos County, Colorado, is a federal-owned dam managed by the Bureau of Reclamation.


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Summary

Built in 1951, this earth dam stands at a height of 145 feet, with a structural height of 165 feet, primarily serving as a flood risk reduction measure along the Conejos River. With a storage capacity of 73,317 acre-feet and a surface area of 1000 acres, Platoro plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

The dam's primary purposes extend beyond flood control, including irrigation, recreation, and support for fish and wildlife. Despite its high hazard potential, Platoro lacks a spillway and has not undergone a condition assessment. However, the Bureau of Reclamation conducts regular inspections and enforcement to ensure the dam's safety and functionality. With a maximum discharge capacity of 6,900 cfs, Platoro remains a vital structure in the region's water resource management and climate resilience efforts.

Climate enthusiasts and water resource experts will find Platoro's design and construction details, storage capacities, and operational responsibilities fascinating. As a key component in flood risk reduction and water supply management along the Conejos River, Platoro embodies the intersection of engineering ingenuity and environmental stewardship. Its location in the picturesque city of Platoro adds to its allure, making it a must-visit for those interested in sustainable water infrastructure and climate adaptation strategies.

Year Completed

1951

Dam Length

885

Dam Height

145

River Or Stream

CONEJOS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1000

Hydraulic Height

140

Drainage Area

40

Nid Storage

73317

Structural Height

165

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

165
       
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.