Magic Mountain #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Magic Mountain #1 is a privately-owned dam located in Jefferson County, Colorado, near the city of Pleasant View.


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Summary

Built in 1958, this earth dam stands at a height of 51 feet and has a storage capacity of 189 acre-feet for purposes such as fire protection and stock or small fish pond management. Situated on Jackson Gulch, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and ensuring water availability in the area.

With a hydraulic height of 50 feet and a structural height of 56 feet, Magic Mountain #1 has a spillway width of 295 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 5,372 cubic feet per second. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is currently in satisfactory condition and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and integrity. The dam has a moderate risk assessment rating and has had modifications done in 2003 to improve its hydraulic and structural components.

Managed by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, Magic Mountain #1 serves as a vital infrastructure for water resource management and environmental conservation in the region. Its strategic location on Jackson Gulch and its role in supporting various water-related activities make it a significant asset for climate and water resource enthusiasts looking to understand the crucial role dams play in maintaining water security and environmental sustainability.

Years Modified

2003 - Hydraulic, 2003 - Structural

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

800

Dam Height

51

River Or Stream

JACKSON GULCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

50

Nid Storage

189

Structural Height

56

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1

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.