Mt. Elbert Forebay Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Located in Lake, Colorado, Mt.


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Summary

Elbert Forebay is a federal-owned water resource designed for hydroelectric purposes. Completed in 1976 by the Bureau of Reclamation, this Earth dam stands at a height of 94 feet and has a storage capacity of 11,420 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 11,143 acre-feet. The dam regulates the flow of Box Creek TR and covers a surface area of 384 acres.

Mt. Elbert Forebay's high hazard potential and risk assessment of 2 highlight the importance of its maintenance and regulation. The dam, with a hydraulic height of 73 feet and a structural height of 94 feet, is inspected annually by the Bureau of Reclamation to ensure its safety and integrity. Despite its high hazard potential, the condition assessment of the dam is currently listed as "Not Available," emphasizing the need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures.

With its critical role in generating hydroelectric power and managing water resources in the region, Mt. Elbert Forebay serves as a key infrastructure asset in Colorado. As climate change continues to impact water resources and reservoir management, the importance of maintaining and monitoring structures like Mt. Elbert Forebay becomes increasingly crucial for ensuring water security and resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1976

Dam Length

2650

Dam Height

94

River Or Stream

BOX CREEK TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

384

Hydraulic Height

73

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

11420

Structural Height

94

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

94
       
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.