Franz #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Franz #1, also known as Mt.


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Summary

Shavano Hatchery 1, is a state-owned structure located in Chaffee County, Colorado. Built in 1928, this earth dam serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond primarily for the Arkansas River-OS. The dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a hydraulic height of 11 feet, with a total structural height of 16 feet. It has a storage capacity of 63 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 31 acre-feet.

Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, Franz #1 is considered to have a high risk level, with a risk assessment rating of 2. The dam does not have a spillway type, but a spillway width of 6 feet is indicated. The last inspection of the dam was conducted in August 1978, with the condition currently rated as "Not Rated". The structure has not been modified in recent years, and emergency action preparedness and risk management measures are not explicitly documented.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Franz #1 presents an intriguing case study of a historic earth dam used for fish and wildlife conservation purposes. The dam's location in the picturesque city of Salida, along the Arkansas River-OS, adds to its charm and significance in the region. With its unique design and historical context, Franz #1 is a site worth exploring for those interested in the intersection of water management, conservation, and infrastructure development.

Year Completed

1928

Dam Length

2140

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

ARKANSAS RIVER-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

11

Nid Storage

63

Structural Height

16

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

16
       
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.