Onion Valley
Key Takeaway
Onion Valley is classified as high hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1954 and is 72 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 | 85 ft (taller than 94.4% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 407 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 10.4K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 9.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 340 acres |
| Drainage Area | 22 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 502 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1954 (72 years old) |
| NID ID | CO00603 |
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
FRUITLAND IRRIGATION CO. (TODD, PRESIDENT, DANNY)
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Onion Valley?
Onion Valley 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 Onion Valley?
Onion Valley is owned by FRUITLAND IRRIGATION CO. (TODD, PRESIDENT, DANNY) (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Onion Valley built?
Onion Valley was completed in 1954, making it 72 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 Onion Valley?
Onion Valley 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 Onion Valley?
Onion Valley has a dam height of 85 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 Onion Valley last inspected?
Onion Valley was last inspected on July 6, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.