Walsenburg Ponds Reservoir Report
Nearby: Levy Sharps Orchard
Last Updated: December 4, 2025
Walsenburg Ponds, located in Huerfano County, Colorado, are a vital water resource for irrigation purposes along the Cucharas River.
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Summary
Built in 1910, these ponds have a dam height of 14 feet and a storage capacity of 108 acre-feet. With a surface area of 2 acres, these ponds play a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the region.
Although last inspected in 1989, the hazard potential of Walsenburg Ponds is rated as low, and the condition assessment is currently not rated. Despite being state-regulated and having necessary permits, the risk assessment for these ponds is considered high, indicating the importance of proper risk management measures. The absence of a spillway and the outdated inspection date raise concerns about the safety and maintenance of this water structure.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Walsenburg Ponds serve as a historic and functional feature in the local landscape, providing essential irrigation water for agriculture. The ponds, with their earth dam construction, are a reminder of the region's agricultural heritage and the importance of responsible water management. With proper maintenance and risk management, these ponds will continue to support the agricultural community while preserving the natural environment along the Cucharas River.
Year Completed |
1910 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
CUCHARAS RIVER-OS |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Nid Storage |
108 |
Structural Height |
14 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Walsenburg Ponds
Cucharas Reservoir