Red Mesa Ward
Key Takeaway
Red Mesa Ward is classified as high hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1915 and is 111 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 | 59 ft (taller than 91.2% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 420 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.2K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 59 acres |
| Drainage Area | 30 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 5,500 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1915 (111 years old) |
| NID ID | CO01075 |
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
RED MESA RESERVOIR & DITCH CO. (JIM GREER)
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Red Mesa Ward?
Red Mesa Ward 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 Red Mesa Ward?
Red Mesa Ward is owned by RED MESA RESERVOIR & DITCH CO. (JIM GREER) (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Red Mesa Ward built?
Red Mesa Ward was completed in 1915, making it 111 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 Red Mesa Ward?
Red Mesa Ward 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 Red Mesa Ward?
Red Mesa Ward has a dam height of 59 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 Red Mesa Ward last inspected?
Red Mesa Ward was last inspected on July 18, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.