Vouga

RAZOR CREEK· Saguache, Colorado· Built 1978· Earth· 56 ft tall
High Hazard Irrigation Private

Key Takeaway

Vouga is classified as high hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1978 and is 48 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 56 ft (taller than 90.4% in CO)
Dam Length1,195 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage1.5K acre-ft
Normal Storage920 acre-ft
Surface Area50 acres
Drainage Area32 sq mi
Max Discharge4,550 cfs
Year Completed1978 (48 years old)
NID IDCO00800

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 8, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DWR

Ownership

VOUGA RESERVOIR ASSOCIATION (STAHELI, RALPH)

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Vouga?

Vouga 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 Vouga?

Vouga is owned by VOUGA RESERVOIR ASSOCIATION (STAHELI, RALPH) (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Vouga built?

Vouga was completed in 1978, making it 48 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 Vouga?

Vouga 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 Vouga?

Vouga has a dam height of 56 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 Vouga last inspected?

Vouga was last inspected on July 8, 2022. 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.