Ruedi

FRYINGPAN RIVER· Pitkin, Colorado· Built 1968· Earth· 291 ft tall
High Hazard Hydroelectric Other Irrigation Recreation Water Supply Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Ruedi is classified as high hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1968 and is 58 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. 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 291 ft (taller than 99.5% in CO)
Dam Length1,042 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage119.0K acre-ft
Normal Storage102.4K acre-ft
Surface Area1,110 acres
Drainage Area226 sq mi
Max Discharge5,540 cfs
Year Completed1968 (58 years old)
NID IDCO01664

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: July 2, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DWR

Ownership

RECLAMATION

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Ruedi?

Ruedi 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 Ruedi?

Ruedi is owned by RECLAMATION (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Ruedi built?

Ruedi was completed in 1968, making it 58 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 Ruedi?

Ruedi serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Other, Irrigation, Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Ruedi?

Ruedi has a dam height of 291 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 Ruedi last inspected?

Ruedi was last inspected on July 2, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.