Horseshoe Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Horseshoe Lake, also known as Lake Miriam, is a state-regulated body of water located in Huerfano County, Colorado.


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Summary

This picturesque lake serves as a popular spot for recreational activities, offering opportunities for fishing and wildlife viewing. The dam that creates Horseshoe Lake was completed in 1961 and stands at a height of 24 feet, with a structural height of 27 feet and a length of 4180 feet.

With a storage capacity of 3750 acre-feet, Horseshoe Lake covers a surface area of 172 acres and is fed by the Cucharas River. The dam is classified as an earth dam and features an uncontrolled spillway, with a maximum discharge capacity of 373 cubic feet per second. Despite being assessed as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition is rated as fair, with the last inspection conducted in August 2020.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate Horseshoe Lake not only for its recreational value but also for its role in wildlife conservation and water storage. The lake's location in the scenic Colorado landscape, along with its regulated status and structural features, make it an intriguing spot for those interested in the management and maintenance of water resources. As a significant component of the local ecosystem, Horseshoe Lake provides a valuable opportunity to study the intersection of human development and environmental stewardship in a changing climate.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

4180

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

CUCHARAS RIVER-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

172

Hydraulic Height

24

Nid Storage

3750

Structural Height

27

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

27
       
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.