East Portal Dam

WIND RIVER· Larimer, Colorado· Built 1947· Earth·
High Hazard Federal Government

Key Takeaway

East Portal Dam is classified as high hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1947 and is 79 years old. 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 Length245 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Normal Storage0 acre-ft
Surface Area2 acres
Year Completed1947 (79 years old)
NID IDCO02363

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: August 5, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DWR

Ownership

RECLAMATION

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of East Portal Dam?

East Portal Dam 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 East Portal Dam?

East Portal Dam is owned by RECLAMATION (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was East Portal Dam built?

East Portal Dam was completed in 1947, making it 79 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

When was East Portal Dam last inspected?

East Portal Dam was last inspected on August 5, 2020. 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.