Summary
Built in 1961, this private-owned earth dam stands at a height of 64 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 10,511 acre-feet. Despite its essential role in water management, the dam's condition assessment was marked as unsatisfactory during its last inspection in July 2020, highlighting the need for ongoing maintenance and management to ensure its safety and functionality.
With a hazard potential rated as high, the Gurley dam presents a significant risk that must be carefully managed. The dam lacks a spillway and is equipped with slide gates and uncontrolled outlets, adding to its vulnerability in the event of high discharge. The surrounding community, including the city of Norwood, relies on the dam for irrigation purposes, making it crucial to address any safety concerns promptly and effectively. As a regulated structure under the jurisdiction of the Colorado Division of Water Resources, ongoing inspections and enforcement measures are in place to mitigate potential risks and ensure the dam's stability.
In light of its critical role in water resource management, the Gurley dam serves as a focal point for climate and water resource enthusiasts. Its location in the scenic Gurley Canyon and its impact on the local ecosystem make it a compelling subject for further study and monitoring. As efforts continue to maintain and improve the dam's condition, it remains a key piece of infrastructure in Colorado's water management network, highlighting the importance of sustainable practices and risk assessment in safeguarding vital resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Length |
2400 |
Dam Height |
64 |
River Or Stream |
GURLEY CANYON |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
336 |
Hydraulic Height |
85 |
Drainage Area |
2 |
Nid Storage |
10511 |
Structural Height |
88 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate), Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
88 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Miramonte Reservoir - SWA
|
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Lower Beaver
|
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Caddis Flats
|
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Little Bench Camp
|
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Lone Cone Cabin
|
||
Ponderosa Camp
|
Gurley
Lower Beaver
Specie Creek
Caddis Flats
Placerville
Down Valley Park
Naturita Creek
Norwood Canyon
Saltado Creek
Beaver Creek
San Miguel River Segment 2
San Miguel River Segment 3