Pinon Canyon Detention
Key Takeaway
Pinon Canyon Detention is classified as high hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1954 and is 72 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 | 73 ft (taller than 93.3% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 695 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 561 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 406 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 19 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 11,900 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1954 (72 years old) |
| NID ID | CO00105 |
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
CITY OF TRINIDAD DPW
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Pinon Canyon Detention?
Pinon Canyon Detention 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 Pinon Canyon Detention?
Pinon Canyon Detention is owned by CITY OF TRINIDAD DPW (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Pinon Canyon Detention built?
Pinon Canyon Detention 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 Pinon Canyon Detention?
Pinon Canyon Detention serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Pinon Canyon Detention?
Pinon Canyon Detention has a dam height of 73 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 Pinon Canyon Detention last inspected?
Pinon Canyon Detention was last inspected on October 24, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.