Ridgway Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Ridgway, located in Ouray County, Colorado, along the Uncompahgre River, is a Federal-owned dam designed by the Bureau of Reclamation for flood risk reduction.


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Summary

Completed in 1986, this earth dam stands at an impressive height of 330 feet, with a hydraulic height of 221 feet and a length of 2465 feet. Its primary purpose extends beyond flood protection to include irrigation, recreation, and water supply, showcasing its multifaceted role in water resource management.

With a storage capacity of 89,230 acre-feet and a surface area of 1109 acres, Ridgway Dam serves a vital role in managing the local watershed's drainage area of 265 square miles. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is regularly inspected, with the most recent assessment conducted in June 2020. The Emergency Action Plan (EAP) for the dam was last revised in July 2020, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and risk management in safeguarding the surrounding communities.

As a significant piece of infrastructure in the region, Ridgway Dam symbolizes the intricate balance between human development and natural resources. Its presence not only mitigates flood risks but also supports essential functions like irrigation and recreation. By adhering to rigorous regulatory standards and maintaining a proactive approach to risk assessment, Ridgway Dam stands as a testament to responsible water resource management in the face of changing climates and evolving challenges.

Year Completed

1986

Dam Length

2465

Dam Height

330

River Or Stream

UMCOMPAHGRE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1109

Hydraulic Height

221

Drainage Area

265

Nid Storage

89230

Structural Height

330

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

330
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.