Apishapa Reservoir Report
Nearby: Leuchte #2 Arnold Flood Water
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Apishapa, also known as Mitotes, is a private fish and wildlife pond located in Las Animas, Colorado.
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Summary
Built in 1892, this earth dam stands at a height of 41 feet and has a length of 720 feet, with a storage capacity of 434 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Apishapa is to support fish and wildlife in the surrounding area, making it a crucial water resource for the local ecosystem.
Despite its historical significance, Apishapa presents a high hazard potential and has been assessed as unsatisfactory in condition. The dam is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. With a maximum discharge of 1224 cubic feet per second, the dam's spillway is uncontrolled and measures 8 feet in width.
Climate enthusiasts and water resource specialists alike can appreciate the ecological importance of Apishapa, which serves as a vital habitat for wildlife in the region. The dam's moderate risk assessment highlights the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential hazards. As one of the oldest structures in the area, Apishapa stands as a testament to Colorado's rich history of water management and conservation efforts.
Year Completed |
1892 |
Dam Length |
720 |
Dam Height |
41 |
River Or Stream |
APISHAPA RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
18 |
Hydraulic Height |
41 |
Drainage Area |
4 |
Nid Storage |
434 |
Structural Height |
41 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
41 |
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.
Apishapa