Rainbow Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Rainbow is a privately owned dam located in El Paso, Colorado, near Colorado Springs.


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Summary

Built in 1930, the dam's primary purpose is recreation, offering visitors a chance to enjoy the scenic beauty of South Beaver Creek. With a height of 26 feet and a length of 88 feet, Rainbow has a storage capacity of 156 acre-feet and a drainage area of 5 square miles.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, Rainbow is subject to state regulations and inspections to ensure its continued safety and functionality. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 40 feet, capable of handling a maximum discharge of 2140 cubic feet per second. The dam is situated within the jurisdiction of the Colorado Department of Water Resources, offering enthusiasts the opportunity to witness both the engineering marvel of the structure and the natural beauty that surrounds it.

Overall, Rainbow Dam presents a moderate risk level, with a risk assessment rating of 3 out of 5. While the dam has not been significantly modified since its completion, regular inspections are conducted to maintain its safety standards. With its picturesque location and recreational opportunities, Rainbow serves as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of water resource management and environmental stewardship in the state of Colorado.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

88

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

SOUTH BEAVER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

5

Nid Storage

156

Structural Height

26

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

26
       
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.