La Jara - Dam No. 2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

La Jara - Dam No.


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Summary

2, located in Conejos, Colorado, along the La Jara Creek, was completed in 1906 for the primary purpose of recreation. This earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet with a hydraulic height of 24 feet and a structural height of 30 feet. It has a length of 730 feet and a storage capacity of 14,055 acre-feet, serving purposes such as fish and wildlife pond, irrigation, and recreation in the region.

Managed by the State of Colorado, the dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the Department of Water Resources. The dam has a significant hazard potential with a satisfactory condition assessment as of June 2019. It has an uncontrolled spillway type with a width of 40 feet, and a maximum discharge capacity of 1650 cubic feet per second. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam is equipped to handle emergencies with updated emergency action plans.

Overall, La Jara - Dam No. 2 plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience in the area. Its historical significance, recreational value, and environmental impact make it a key structure in the region, ensuring water supply, wildlife habitat, and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Year Completed

1906

Dam Length

730

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

LA JARA CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1241

Hydraulic Height

24

Drainage Area

40

Nid Storage

14055

Structural Height

30

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

30
       
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.