Cortez #1
Key Takeaway
Cortez #1 is classified as significant hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1938 and is 88 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 38 ft (taller than 79.2% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 875 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 145 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 84 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 9 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 253 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1938 (88 years old) |
| NID ID | CO01072 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
CITY OF CORTEZ
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Totten
Montezuma, CO
High Hazard 30 ftDenny Lake
Montezuma, CO
Low Hazard 8 ftMcgechie
Montezuma, CO
Significant Hazard 30 ftGrimes
Montezuma, CO
Low Hazard 21 ftNarraguinnep - Main Dam
Montezuma, CO
High Hazard 100 ftNarraguinnep - Dam 2
Montezuma, CO
High Hazard 19 ftA. M. Puett
Montezuma, CO
Significant Hazard 43 ftNarraguinnep - Dam 3
Montezuma, CO
High Hazard 34 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Cortez #1?
Cortez #1 is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Cortez #1?
Cortez #1 is owned by CITY OF CORTEZ (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Cortez #1 built?
Cortez #1 was completed in 1938, making it 88 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 Cortez #1?
Cortez #1 serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Cortez #1?
Cortez #1 has a dam height of 38 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 Cortez #1 last inspected?
Cortez #1 was last inspected on October 5, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.