Apishapa

APISHAPA RIVER-TR· Las Animas, Colorado· Built 1892· Earth· 41 ft tall
High Hazard Fish And Wildlife Pond Private

Key Takeaway

Apishapa is classified as high hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1892 and is 134 years old. Its primary use is fish and wildlife pond. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 41 ft (taller than 82.7% in CO)
Dam Length720 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage434 acre-ft
Normal Storage209 acre-ft
Surface Area18 acres
Drainage Area4 sq mi
Max Discharge1,224 cfs
Year Completed1892 (134 years old)
NID IDCO02259

Safety Information

High Hazard

Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: May 12, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DWR

Ownership

TODD HUFFMAN,

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Apishapa?

Apishapa is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Apishapa?

Apishapa is owned by TODD HUFFMAN, (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Apishapa built?

Apishapa was completed in 1892, making it 134 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Apishapa?

Apishapa serves the following purposes: Fish And Wildlife Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Apishapa?

Apishapa has a dam height of 41 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Apishapa last inspected?

Apishapa was last inspected on May 12, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.