Summary
Completed in 1909, this Earth-type dam stands at 39 feet high and holds a maximum storage capacity of 92,651 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is water supply, with additional benefits including recreation opportunities and a normal storage capacity of 44,733 acre-feet.
Situated on the South Fork South Platte River, Antero boasts a surface area of 3,446 acres and a drainage area of 200 square miles. With a high hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment, the dam has a spillway width of 1,070 feet and a max discharge of 45,000 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, Antero remains regulated and inspected by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, ensuring its continued safe operation and water supply management for the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Antero presents a fascinating case study of a historic dam that continues to play a crucial role in water management and supply in Colorado. Its impressive engineering and strategic location on the South Platte River highlight the importance of sustainable water infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions. Antero serves as a reminder of the essential role that dams play in supporting communities and ecosystems, while also prompting discussions on the need for ongoing maintenance and risk management to ensure the safety and reliability of such critical water infrastructure in the future.
Year Completed |
1909 |
Dam Length |
4190 |
Dam Height |
39 |
River Or Stream |
S. FORK S. PLATTE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3446 |
Hydraulic Height |
27 |
Drainage Area |
200 |
Nid Storage |
92651 |
Structural Height |
48 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
48 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Buffalo Springs
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Buffalo Springs Campground
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Mushroom Gulch Site 3
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Mushroom Gulch Site 2
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Mushroom Gulch Site 1
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Antero