Hogchute Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hogchute, also known as Carson Lake, is a local government-owned water supply dam located in Mesa County, Colorado.


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Summary

Completed in 1947, this Earth dam stands at a height of 53 feet with a hydraulic height of 56 feet, serving the primary purpose of water supply. The dam has a storage capacity of 610 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 520 acre-feet and a drainage area of 11 square miles.

Situated on Kannah Creek in Whitewater, Colorado, Hogchute spans 620 feet in length and covers a surface area of 41 acres. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, with a width of 140 feet, and its outlet gates include a slide (sluice gate) and an uncontrolled mechanism. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of July 2020, with a moderate risk rating of 3.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Hogchute will find this dam to be a significant structure in the region, providing essential water supply services while maintaining a fair condition. With its rich history dating back to 1947 and its capacity to store 610 acre-feet of water, Hogchute plays a vital role in the water management system of Mesa County. As a state-regulated and inspected dam, it ensures the safety and reliability of its operations for the benefit of the local community and ecosystem.

Year Completed

1947

Dam Length

620

Dam Height

53

River Or Stream

KANNAH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

41

Hydraulic Height

56

Drainage Area

11

Nid Storage

610

Structural Height

56

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate), Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

56
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.