Mcphee Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Montezuma County, Colorado, Mcphee is a federally owned dam with a primary purpose of serving as a fish and wildlife pond.


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Summary

Completed in 1983, this rockfill dam stands at an impressive height of 295 feet and boasts a storage capacity of 399,200 acre-feet. It plays a crucial role in irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, recreation, and water supply in the region.

The Mcphee dam, situated on the Dolores River, is regulated by the Bureau of Reclamation and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a high hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, emergency action plans are in place to mitigate potential risks and protect downstream communities in the event of a dam failure. Despite its risk level, Mcphee continues to be an essential water resource infrastructure in the area, supporting various water-related activities and environmental conservation efforts.

As a key component of the water management system in Colorado, Mcphee serves as a testament to the intricate balance between water resource development and environmental stewardship. Its multifaceted design and purpose highlight the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of climate change and increasing water demands. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Mcphee represents a fascinating intersection of engineering, natural resource management, and community resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1983

Dam Length

1300

Dam Height

295

River Or Stream

DELORES RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

4918

Hydraulic Height

262

Drainage Area

809

Nid Storage

399200

Structural Height

295

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

295
       
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.