Native Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Archuleta, Colorado, Native Lake is a private fish and wildlife pond with a low hazard potential and a high risk assessment rating.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam, completed in 1970, stands at 26 feet in height and spans 795 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 43 acre-feet. Despite being state-regulated and regularly inspected, the dam's condition remains unrated as of its last inspection in 2001.

Surrounded by the picturesque landscape of the RIO CHAMITA-TR river and situated just 10 miles from CHAMA, NM, Native Lake provides a vital habitat for local wildlife while also offering recreational opportunities for visitors. With a surface area of 4 acres and a normal storage capacity of 30 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in supporting the ecosystem of the region. However, the absence of a spillway and updated emergency action plan raises concerns about the dam's ability to withstand potential risks in the future.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the complexities of dam management and environmental conservation, Native Lake serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of human infrastructure and natural ecosystems. With its rich history dating back to the 1970s, this private pond continues to be a symbol of the delicate balance between human development and environmental stewardship in the region.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

795

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

RIO CHAMITA-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

26

Nid Storage

43

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.