Rito Hondo
Key Takeaway
Rito Hondo is classified as high hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1956 and is 70 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 44 ft (taller than 84.9% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 250 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 766 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 561 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 41 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,380 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1956 (70 years old) |
| NID ID | CO00778 |
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
COLORADO PARKS AND WILDLIFE (TAYLOR, MARGARET)
State Government
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High Hazard 102 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Rito Hondo?
Rito Hondo 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 Rito Hondo?
Rito Hondo is owned by COLORADO PARKS AND WILDLIFE (TAYLOR, MARGARET) (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Rito Hondo built?
Rito Hondo was completed in 1956, making it 70 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 Rito Hondo?
Rito Hondo serves the following purposes: Recreation, Fish And Wildlife Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Rito Hondo?
Rito Hondo has a dam height of 44 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 Rito Hondo last inspected?
Rito Hondo was last inspected on June 7, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.