Lake Nighthorse Reservoir Report
Nearby: Johnson #2 Johnson
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
Lake Nighthorse is a man-made reservoir located in La Plata County, Colorado.
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Summary
The lake was created in 2009 as a water storage facility to provide year-round water supply to the nearby Durango city. The hydrology of the lake is primarily dependent on snowpack and surface flow from the Animas River, which contributes to about 90% of the water volume. The lake's water is also supplied from the Florida River and other tributaries. The agricultural and recreational uses of Lake Nighthorse are limited, and the lake is primarily used for fishing, boating, and swimming. The lake is stocked with several fish species, including kokanee salmon, rainbow trout, and smallmouth bass. The lake has become a popular destination for locals and visitors, providing an excellent opportunity for outdoor activities in a beautiful setting.
Reservoir Details
| Storage 24hr Change | 0.01% |
| Percent of Normal | 109% |
| Minimum |
171.0 acre-ft
2009-06-09 |
| Maximum |
115,254.0 acre-ft
2018-05-29 |
| Average | 102,842 acre-ft |
Seasonal Comparison
Inflow Levels
Storage Levels
Pool Elevation Levels
Total Release Levels
Inflow Levels
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Animas River Blw Durango Pump Plant Nr Durango
|
241cfs |
Animas River At Durango
|
208cfs |
La Plata River At Hesperus
|
8cfs |
Florida R Bl Flor Farmers Ditch
|
9cfs |
Salt Creek Near Oxford
|
-888cfs |
Florida River At Bondad
|
-888cfs |
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.
Ridges Basin
Lake Nighthorse