Fuchs

E. FORK PINOS CREEK· Rio Grande, Colorado· Built 1930· Earth· 26 ft tall
High Hazard Irrigation Private

Key Takeaway

Fuchs is classified as high hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1930 and is 96 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. 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 26 ft (taller than 56.3% in CO)
Dam Length720 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage379 acre-ft
Normal Storage237 acre-ft
Surface Area26 acres
Drainage Area2 sq mi
Max Discharge795 cfs
Year Completed1930 (96 years old)
NID IDCO00770

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: September 2, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DWR

Ownership

FUCHS RANCHES, INC. (SPRUNGER, MICHAEL)

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Fuchs?

Fuchs 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 Fuchs?

Fuchs is owned by FUCHS RANCHES, INC. (SPRUNGER, MICHAEL) (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Fuchs built?

Fuchs was completed in 1930, making it 96 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 Fuchs?

Fuchs serves the following purposes: Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Fuchs?

Fuchs has a dam height of 26 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 Fuchs last inspected?

Fuchs was last inspected on September 2, 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.