Blue Mesa Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Blue Mesa is a significant water resource located in Gunnison, Colorado, managed by the Bureau of Reclamation for flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, and recreation.


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Summary

The dam, completed in 1965, is an earth-filled structure standing at 390 feet high and spanning 785 feet in length. It has a storage capacity of 940,700 acre-feet and covers an impressive surface area of 9,180 acres, drawing water from the Gunnison River.

With a high hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, Blue Mesa Dam is carefully regulated and inspected by the Bureau of Reclamation to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam boasts a controlled spillway with a width of 50 feet and multiple outlet gates for effective water management. The surrounding area offers a range of recreational activities, making it a popular destination for water and climate enthusiasts alike.

Visitors to Blue Mesa can appreciate the engineering marvel of the dam while enjoying the natural beauty of the Gunnison River and the expansive reservoir it creates. As a vital component of Colorado's water infrastructure, Blue Mesa serves multiple purposes while contributing to the region's water supply, energy generation, and agricultural needs.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

785

Dam Height

390

River Or Stream

GUNNISON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9180

Hydraulic Height

342

Drainage Area

3470

Nid Storage

940700

Structural Height

390

Outlet Gates

Roller, Tainter (radial), Vertical Lift

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

390
       
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.