Groundhog
Key Takeaway
Groundhog is classified as high hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1939 and is 87 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 | 115 ft (taller than 97.1% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 740 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 32.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 26.6K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 755 acres |
| Drainage Area | 15 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 10,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1939 (87 years old) |
| NID ID | CO01084 |
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
MONTEZUMA VALLEY IRRIGATION CO.
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Groundhog?
Groundhog 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 Groundhog?
Groundhog is owned by MONTEZUMA VALLEY IRRIGATION CO. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Groundhog built?
Groundhog was completed in 1939, making it 87 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 Groundhog?
Groundhog serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond, Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Groundhog?
Groundhog has a dam height of 115 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 Groundhog last inspected?
Groundhog was last inspected on May 5, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.