Manitou Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Manitou is a vital water resource facility located in Cascade, El Paso County, Colorado.


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Summary

Constructed in 1971, this earth dam stands at a height of 123 feet and serves the primary purpose of water supply. With a maximum storage capacity of 1100 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 700 acre-feet, Manitou plays a crucial role in supporting the local water supply needs in the region. The dam's reservoir covers a surface area of 27 acres and is fed by the North Fork French Creek.

Managed by local government authorities and regulated by the Colorado Division of Water Resources, Manitou has a high hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in satisfactory condition. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 100 feet and has a maximum discharge capacity of 15,900 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, Manitou continues to undergo regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and safe operation. With its strategic location and essential role in water supply management, Manitou stands as a crucial infrastructure for the community's water resource and climate resilience.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

519

Dam Height

123

River Or Stream

NORTH FORK FRENCH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

27

Hydraulic Height

121

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

1100

Structural Height

124

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

124
       
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.