Ridgway Reservoir Near Ridgway Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Ridgway Reservoir, located near Ridgway, CO in Colorado, is a man-made lake created in 1987.


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Summary

The reservoir is fed by the Uncompahgre River and is used for hydroelectric power generation as well as irrigation for agricultural purposes. The area receives an average of 24 inches of snowfall annually, which is the main source of water for the reservoir. Providers of surface flow and snowpack include the Uncompahgre River and the San Juan Mountains snowpack. The reservoir is also used for recreational purposes, such as fishing, camping, boating, and swimming. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout, brown trout, and Kokanee salmon, making it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts. The reservoir and surrounding areas are managed by the Colorado Parks and Wildlife agency.

Reservoir Details

Lake Or Reservoir Water Surface Elevation Above Ngvd 1929, Ft 24hr Change 0.0%
Percent of Normal 100%
Minimum 6,826.37 ft
2018-10-10
Maximum 6,872.75 ft
2009-05-25
Average 6,849 ft
Dam_Height 330
Hydraulic_Height 221
Drainage_Area 265
Year_Completed 1986
Nid_Storage 89230
Structural_Height 330
River_Or_Stream UMCOMPAHGRE RIVER
Foundations Rock
Surface_Area 1109
Hazard_Potential High
Dam_Length 2465
Primary_Dam_Type Earth
Nid_Height 330
       
Seasonal Comparison
Reservoir Storage, Acre-Ft Levels
Lake Or Reservoir Water Surface Elevation Above Ngvd 1929, Ft 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.