Mt. Elbert Forebay Saddle Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

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Summary

Elbert Forebay Saddle Dike, located in Lake County, Colorado, is a crucial structure owned by the Bureau of Reclamation and primarily used for hydroelectric purposes. This earth dam, standing at a height of 22 feet, was completed in 1977 and has a storage capacity of 11,420 acre-feet. With a surface area of 384 acres, the dam plays a significant role in managing water resources in the region.

The dam's high hazard potential and risk assessment rating of 2 highlight the importance of its maintenance and monitoring. While the condition assessment is currently not available, regular inspections by the Bureau of Reclamation ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. The absence of a spillway indicates the need for alternative risk management measures to prevent potential flooding and ensure the protection of downstream communities.

Despite its critical role in water resource management and energy generation, the Mt. Elbert Forebay Saddle Dike poses significant risks that require constant attention and proactive measures. The dam's association with other structures and its location on Box Creek TR further emphasize the need for effective regulatory oversight and emergency preparedness to mitigate potential hazards and safeguard the surrounding environment and communities.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

820

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

BOX CREEK TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

384

Hydraulic Height

17

Nid Storage

11420

Structural Height

22

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

22
       
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.