Pagosa Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Pagosa is a vital water supply dam located in Pagosa Springs, Colorado, along the Four Mile Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1974, this earth dam stands at 33 feet tall with a length of 720 feet, providing a storage capacity of 52 acre-feet for the local community. The dam's primary purpose is water supply, serving as a crucial asset for the region.

Managed by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, Pagosa Dam has been rated as having low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is subject to regular inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and reliability. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam plays a significant role in securing water resources for the area.

Pagosa Dam's presence highlights the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience in the region. As a key infrastructure for water supply, the dam underscores the importance of sustainable water management practices in addressing the challenges posed by climate change. Enthusiasts in water resources and climate resilience can find inspiration in Pagosa's role as a critical piece of infrastructure supporting the community's water needs while navigating the complexities of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

720

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

FOUR MILE CREEK-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

31

Nid Storage

52

Structural Height

33

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

33
       
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.