Alexander Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Nestled in the picturesque city of Cedaredge, Colorado, Alexander Lake, also known as Reservoir #8, stands as a vital water resource for irrigation and recreation.


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Summary

This private-owned reservoir, completed in 1886, spans a surface area of 24 acres and holds a maximum storage capacity of 303 acre-feet. Surrounded by the serene Ward Creek and situated within the Delta County, Alexander Lake serves as a lifeline for agricultural activities in the region.

With its earth dam structure standing at a height of 11 feet and a length of 138 feet, Alexander Lake boasts a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment. Despite its modest size, the reservoir plays a crucial role in water management and supports a variety of recreational activities for locals and visitors alike. The absence of a spillway is compensated by slide and uncontrolled outlet gates, ensuring the steady flow of water for irrigation purposes.

Managed and regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, Alexander Lake showcases a harmonious blend of functionality and natural beauty. Its historical significance and practical utility make it a hidden gem for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to explore the intersection of human intervention and environmental sustainability in the heart of Colorado's scenic landscape.

Year Completed

1886

Dam Length

138

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

WARD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

24

Hydraulic Height

11

Nid Storage

303

Structural Height

11

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate), Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

11
       
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.