Vela
Key Takeaway
Vela is classified as low hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1959 and is 67 years old. Its primary use is irrigation.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 37 ft (taller than 78.2% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 625 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 517 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 437 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 16 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,099 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1959 (67 years old) |
| NID ID | CO00637 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
VELA, J. L.
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Vela?
Vela is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Vela?
Vela is owned by VELA, J. L. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Vela built?
Vela was completed in 1959, making it 67 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 Vela?
Vela 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 Vela?
Vela has a dam height of 37 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 Vela last inspected?
Vela was last inspected on August 20, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.