Spring Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Spring Creek is a state-regulated dam located in Gunnison, Colorado, with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1961, this earth dam stands at a height of 53 feet and has a hydraulic height of 56 feet. It holds a maximum storage capacity of 2,261 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 1,631 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 89 acres. The dam is associated with the Taylor River and its reservoir supports fish and wildlife, as well as recreational activities.

With a spillway type of uncontrolled, Spring Creek Dam has a spillway width of 268 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 24,000 cubic feet per second. The dam is inspected annually, with its last assessment in July 2020 rating its condition as fair. Despite its high hazard potential, the risk assessment for Spring Creek Dam is moderate, with no specific risk management measures listed. The dam is equipped with slide gates and uncontrolled outlets, and it meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement guidelines.

Overall, Spring Creek Dam serves as a vital water resource for the Gunnison community, offering recreational opportunities while also supporting fish and wildlife habitats. Its location in a picturesque setting along the Taylor River makes it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and upkeep of dams like Spring Creek will be crucial in ensuring the safety and sustainability of our water supply in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

570

Dam Height

53

River Or Stream

TAYLOR RIVER TR & SP-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

89

Hydraulic Height

56

Drainage Area

20

Nid Storage

2261

Structural Height

76

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate), Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

76
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.