Ault Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ault, also known as Spatafore, is a private water resource structure located in Gunnison, Colorado, specifically in Paonia.


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Summary

Built in 1959 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam serves the primary purpose of irrigation along the Muddy Creek-TR. With a height of 49 feet and a storage capacity of 140 acre-feet, Ault plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the region.

Managed by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, Ault is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced to ensure its safe and efficient operation. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, it is deemed to have a high risk level, warranting careful risk management measures. The dam features a slide gate and uncontrolled outlet gates, with no spillway in place, emphasizing the need for continuous monitoring and maintenance to mitigate any potential risks.

While Ault currently meets regulatory guidelines and has not undergone recent modifications, its risk assessment and management remain key considerations for water resource and climate enthusiasts. As a vital component of the local irrigation infrastructure, Ault's resilience and safety are crucial in safeguarding the surrounding community and supporting sustainable water resource management practices in the area.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

435

Dam Height

49

River Or Stream

MUDDY CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

48

Nid Storage

140

Structural Height

51

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate), Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

51
       
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.