Brush Fence Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Brush Fence Lake is a private fish and wildlife pond located in Archuleta County, Colorado.


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Summary

Built in 1970, this earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and spans 680 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 26 acre-feet. The lake serves as a habitat for various wildlife species and is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, ensuring proper inspection and enforcement measures are in place.

Despite its low hazard potential, Brush Fence Lake is considered to have a high risk due to its condition not being rated and lacking updated emergency action plans. The surrounding area is at risk of inundation in the event of a dam failure, highlighting the importance of implementing risk management measures. With a maximum discharge of 98 cubic feet per second and a surface area of 4 acres, this serene water body is a key feature in the local ecosystem and requires ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its safety and functionality for both wildlife and the community.

Located near Chama, New Mexico, Brush Fence Lake offers a tranquil setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to observe and appreciate the delicate balance between human-made structures and natural ecosystems. As efforts continue to assess and address potential risks associated with the dam, this picturesque pond remains a valuable asset for supporting biodiversity and enhancing the local environment.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

680

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

RIO CHAMITA-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

28

Nid Storage

26

Structural Height

28

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

28
       
Seasonal Comparison

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.