Echo Canyon
Key Takeaway
Echo Canyon is classified as significant hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1969 and is 57 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 68 ft (taller than 92.4% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 300 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 3.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2.1K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 118 acres |
| Drainage Area | 10 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 5,352 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1969 (57 years old) |
| NID ID | CO01055 |
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
COLORADO PARKS AND WILDLIFE
State Government
Nearby Dams
Pinon Lake
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Significant Hazard 14 ftPagosa
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Low Hazard 17 ftLake Forest
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Low Hazard 23 ftMountain View
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High Hazard 90 ftStevens
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High Hazard 42 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Echo Canyon?
Echo Canyon 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 Echo Canyon?
Echo Canyon is owned by COLORADO PARKS AND WILDLIFE (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Echo Canyon built?
Echo Canyon was completed in 1969, making it 57 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 Echo Canyon?
Echo Canyon serves the following purposes: Recreation, 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 Echo Canyon?
Echo Canyon has a dam height of 68 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 Echo Canyon last inspected?
Echo Canyon was last inspected on April 8, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.