Palmer Lake #2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Palmer Lake #2, also known as Glen Park, is a concrete dam located in El Paso County, Colorado, with a fascinating history dating back to its completion in 1904 by the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This local government-owned structure serves multiple purposes, including water supply, fish and wildlife pond, and recreation, making it a vital resource for the community. With a maximum storage capacity of 200 acre-feet and a normal storage of 144 acre-feet, Palmer Lake #2 plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

This impressive dam stands at a height of 44 feet, with a hydraulic height of 42 feet and a structural height of 50 feet, overlooking the N. Monument Creek. Its uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 17 feet, can handle a maximum discharge of 500 cubic feet per second. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in July 2020. With its strategic location and significant storage capacity, Palmer Lake #2 remains a key asset for water supply and conservation efforts in Colorado.

In addition to its functional importance, Palmer Lake #2 also offers recreational opportunities and contributes to the conservation of fish and wildlife in the area. The dam's historical significance, combined with its modern regulatory compliance and operational efficiency, makes it a valuable asset for water resource management and climate resilience in the region. As climate change impacts water availability and quality, structures like Palmer Lake #2 play a crucial role in ensuring sustainable water management practices for the future.

Year Completed

1904

Dam Length

136

Dam Height

44

River Or Stream

N. MONUMENT CK

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

42

Drainage Area

11

Nid Storage

200

Structural Height

50

Outlet Gates

Valve

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

50
       
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.