Aspaas Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Aspaas is a hydroelectric dam located in La Plata, Colorado, with a primary purpose of generating hydroelectric power.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1980 by designer W.W. Wheeler, this earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and has a storage capacity of 40 acre-feet. Situated on the Little Cascade Creek in Hermosa, the dam serves as a vital water resource in the area, with a normal storage capacity of 24 acre-feet and a surface area of 4 acres.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Aspaas is regulated by the state with inspections and enforcement carried out to ensure its safety and compliance. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is subject to a high risk assessment due to its proximity to residential areas. While the condition assessment is currently not available, emergency action plans have been prepared and updated to meet guidelines, with the last revision in December 2020.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Aspaas presents an intriguing case study of a hydroelectric facility in a mountainous region. With its location in a picturesque setting and its role in renewable energy generation, Aspaas showcases the intersection of water management, energy production, and environmental stewardship. As efforts continue to monitor and improve the safety of the dam, it remains a symbol of sustainable water resource utilization in Colorado.

Year Completed

1980

Dam Length

274

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

Little Cascade Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

26

Nid Storage

40

Structural Height

46

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

46
       
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.