Rule Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rule Creek, located in Teller County, Colorado, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1939 primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

With a height of 35 feet and a length of 125 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 99 acre-feet and serves as a scenic reservoir covering 8 acres. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and fair condition, it is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement by the Colorado Division of Water Resources.

The dam, situated in the picturesque city of Deckers, is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking recreational activities such as fishing and boating. The creek's drainage area spans 19 square miles, with a maximum discharge capacity of 2269 cubic feet per second. Despite the high risk assessment of 2, the dam has not been modified over the years and lacks certain emergency preparedness measures such as an Emergency Action Plan, raising concerns about its safety in the event of a disaster.

With Congressman Doug Lamborn representing the area and the dam falling under the jurisdiction of the Albuquerque District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Rule Creek serves as a vital water resource and recreational destination for both locals and visitors. As efforts continue to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations, the creek remains an integral part of Colorado's natural landscape and a beloved destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.

Year Completed

1939

Dam Length

125

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

RULE CREEK-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

35

Drainage Area

19

Nid Storage

99

Structural Height

35

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

35
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.