Sueno Reservoir Report
Nearby: Russel Monument Lake
Last Updated: December 4, 2025
Sueno, also known as South Valley, is a private irrigation structure located in Stonewall, Colorado, along the Purgatoire River.
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Summary
Completed in 1989, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet with a length of 1091 feet, providing a storage capacity of 162 acre-feet for irrigation purposes. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 27 feet, and it has a low hazard potential with a satisfactory condition assessment as of June 2016.
With its primary purpose being irrigation, Sueno also serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond in addition to supporting agricultural activities in the region. The dam's maximum discharge capability is 3200 cubic feet per second, ensuring efficient water management for the surrounding area. Despite being privately owned, the state of Colorado regulates and inspects the structure regularly to ensure its continued safety and functionality, highlighting the commitment to water resource management and climate resilience in the region.
Located in Las Animas County, Sueno plays a crucial role in water storage and distribution, contributing to the overall water security of the area. With its stone core and uncontrolled spillway, this structure showcases a blend of traditional dam construction methods with modern safety protocols. As climate change impacts water resources, structures like Sueno become essential in maintaining a sustainable balance between agricultural needs and environmental conservation along the Purgatoire River in Colorado.
Year Completed |
1989 |
Dam Length |
1091 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
PURGATOIRE RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Drainage Area |
7 |
Nid Storage |
162 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Outlet Gates |
Bascule - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Monument Lake Park
|
||
Purgatoire
|
||
Purgatoire Campground
|
Sueno