John Martin Reservoir At Caddoa Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

John Martin Reservoir is a man-made body of water located in southeastern Colorado, near the town of Caddoa.


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Summary

Named after John Martin, a former governor of Kansas, the reservoir was created in the 1940s as part of a federal project to conserve water for agriculture and municipal use.

The reservoir receives water from the Arkansas River, the Purgatoire River, and the Huerfano River, as well as from local snowpack. It is managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, which monitors water levels and controls the release of water downstream.

In addition to providing water for irrigation, the reservoir is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and camping. The surrounding area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles and mule deer.

Reservoir Details

Storage 24hr Change 1.09%
Percent of Normal 24%
Minimum 2,534.05 acre-ft
2006-08-13
Maximum 3,516,751.96 acre-ft
1988-08-25
Average 100,932 acre-ft
Nid_Height 25
Hydraulic_Height 25
Primary_Dam_Type Gravity
Year_Completed 1943
Dam_Height 25
Structural_Height 25
River_Or_Stream ARKANSAS
Surface_Area 11590
Hazard_Potential High
Outlet_Gates None - 0, Vertical Lift - 0
Nid_Storage 608245
Dam_Length 13000
       
Seasonal Comparison
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Storage Levels

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.