Paxton Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Paxton, also known as Hi Mountain Lake, is a privately-owned water resource located in Montrose, Colorado.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This reservoir, completed in 1963, serves primarily for irrigation purposes and has a storage capacity of 785 acre-feet. Situated along the N Fork Horsefly Creek, Paxton is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, ensuring that it is inspected and maintained to meet state standards for safety and functionality.

The dam at Paxton is an earth structure with a height of 21 feet and a hydraulic height of 23 feet, providing water for fire protection, stock, small fish ponds, and water supply in addition to irrigation. With a surface area of 50 acres and a maximum discharge capacity of 440 cubic feet per second, Paxton plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, the reservoir is subject to regular inspections and risk assessments to ensure its continued safe operation.

Managed under a private ownership model, Paxton is an essential resource for the community of Naturita, Colorado, and the surrounding area. With its reliable water supply and multiple beneficial uses, this reservoir underscores the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of evolving climate challenges. As a key component of the local water infrastructure, Paxton exemplifies the intersection of water resource management, climate resilience, and community needs in the Western United States.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

N FORK HORSEFLY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

50

Hydraulic Height

23

Nid Storage

785

Structural Height

26

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate), Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

26
       
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.