Rajadero Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rajadero Reservoir, located in Conejos, Colorado, is a federally owned structure managed by the Bureau of Land Management.


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Summary

Built in 1979 for flood risk reduction, this gravity dam stands at a structural height of 24 feet with a hydraulic height of 18 feet. With a maximum storage capacity of 52 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 50 acre-feet, the reservoir covers a surface area of 50 acres.

Although the hazard potential for Rajadero Reservoir is rated as low, it is still subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement by the Colorado Division of Water Resources. The last inspection was conducted in March 2009, with a recommended inspection frequency of every 5 years. Despite not having a condition assessment rating, the reservoir remains in satisfactory condition with no reported issues.

As a key component in flood risk reduction efforts, Rajadero Reservoir plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. With its strategic location and efficient design, this reservoir serves as a vital water resource for the region while maintaining a low hazard potential and ensuring the safety of nearby communities.

Year Completed

1979

Dam Length

300

River Or Stream

UNNAMED

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

50

Hydraulic Height

18

Nid Storage

52

Structural Height

24

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

24
       
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.