Bruce Park Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bruce Park, also known as Terror Creek, is a private water resource located in Paonia, Colorado.


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Summary

Managed by the state regulatory agency DWR, this dam serves multiple purposes including irrigation, fire protection, stock, small fish ponds, and water supply. Completed in 1950, this earth dam stands at a height of 58 feet and has a storage capacity of 598 acre-feet, with a maximum discharge of 580 cubic feet per second.

With a surface area of 33 acres and a drainage area of zero, Bruce Park's high hazard potential and fair condition assessment make it a critical infrastructure for the surrounding community. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates contribute to its moderate risk assessment level. While it has no associated structures or locks, regular inspections ensure its safety and effectiveness in water management. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Bruce Park offers a fascinating example of private irrigation infrastructure in Colorado.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

1015

Dam Height

58

River Or Stream

HUBBARD CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

33

Hydraulic Height

58

Nid Storage

598

Structural Height

62

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate), Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

62
       
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.