Narraguinnep - Dam 3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Narraguinnep - Dam 3, located in Montezuma, Colorado, stands as a testament to the vital role of water resource management in the region.


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Summary

Built in 1957 for irrigation purposes, this earth dam spans 1522 feet in length and reaches a height of 38 feet, with a storage capacity of 22,700 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple functions, including supporting fish and wildlife habitats, recreational activities, and of course, irrigation for agricultural needs in the area.

With a high hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of the last inspection in December 2020, Narraguinnep - Dam 3 is closely monitored by the Colorado Department of Water Resources. Ensuring the safety and integrity of this crucial infrastructure is paramount, especially given its location in Yellowjacket Canyon. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 150 feet, serves as a critical component in managing potential flood events and maintaining the balance of water resources in the region. As climate change continues to impact water availability and distribution, structures like Narraguinnep - Dam 3 highlight the importance of sustainable water management practices and infrastructure maintenance for the future.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

1522

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

YELLOWJACKET CANYON-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

581

Hydraulic Height

34

Drainage Area

9

Nid Storage

22700

Structural Height

38

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

38
       
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.