Vallecito Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Vallecito Reservoir is a popular recreational destination located in southwestern Colorado.


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Summary

The reservoir was formed in 1941 after the construction of the Vallecito Dam on the Pine River. The reservoir has a capacity of 125,000 acre-feet and is used for irrigation, municipal water supply, and recreation. Surface flow from the Pine River and nearby creeks provide water to the reservoir, while snowpack from the surrounding San Juan Mountains also contributes to the water supply. The reservoir is a popular destination for fishing, boating, camping, and hiking, and is surrounded by the San Juan National Forest. The reservoir also supports local agriculture, primarily in the form of hay farming. Despite being impacted by drought in recent years, Vallecito Reservoir remains an important source of water and recreation for the surrounding community.

Reservoir Details

Storage 24hr Change 0.18%
Percent of Normal 180%
Minimum 608.06 acre-ft
1944-10-24
Maximum 126,791.76 acre-ft
1957-07-27
Average 53,980 acre-ft
Nid_Height 162
Hydraulic_Height 118
Primary_Dam_Type Earth
Drainage_Area 255
Year_Completed 1940
Dam_Height 162
Structural_Height 162
River_Or_Stream LOS PINOS RIVER
Foundations Rock
Surface_Area 2803
Hazard_Potential High
Nid_Storage 136200
Dam_Length 4010
       
Seasonal Comparison
Storage Levels
Storage Levels
Pool Elevation Levels
Total Release Levels
Inflow 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.