Blue Mesa
Key Takeaway
Blue Mesa is classified as high hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1965 and is 61 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 | 390 ft (taller than 99.8% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 785 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 940.7K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 748.4K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 9,180 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3,470 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 33,800 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1965 (61 years old) |
| NID ID | CO01675 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
RECLAMATION
Federal Government
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Blue Mesa?
Blue Mesa 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 Blue Mesa?
Blue Mesa is owned by RECLAMATION (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Blue Mesa built?
Blue Mesa was completed in 1965, making it 61 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 Blue Mesa?
Blue Mesa serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Irrigation, Recreation, Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Blue Mesa?
Blue Mesa has a dam height of 390 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 Blue Mesa last inspected?
Blue Mesa was last inspected on July 8, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.