Marchiori Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Marchiori is a privately owned dam located in Huerfano, Colorado, with the primary purpose of irrigation.


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Summary

Completed in 1952, this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and has a length of 300 feet, providing a storage capacity of 160 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Bear Creek-TR and is regulated by the Colorado Division of Water Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place.

Although Marchiori has a low hazard potential, it is classified as having a high risk level, indicating the need for careful monitoring and risk management measures. The dam has not been rated for its condition, with the last inspection conducted in November 1993. Despite its age, Marchiori has not undergone any modifications and does not have a spillway, relying on its structural integrity to manage water flow. The surrounding area covers 12 acres with a drainage area of 3 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 441 cubic feet per second.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will be intrigued by Marchiori's historical significance and its role in supporting agricultural activities in the region. The dam's location in a rural area and its reliance on manual inspections highlight the need for ongoing maintenance and monitoring to ensure its continued safety and functionality. As water resources become increasingly important in the face of climate change, understanding the infrastructure like Marchiori will be crucial for effective water management and planning for the future.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

BEAR CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

26

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

160

Structural Height

26

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

26
       
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.