Pine Cone Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Hotchkiss, Colorado, the Pine Cone dam is a privately owned irrigation structure on Leroux Creek.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1906, this earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and spans 356 feet in length, providing essential water storage of 53 acre-feet for irrigation purposes. With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, Pine Cone dam plays a crucial role in supporting water supply in the region.

Managed by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, Pine Cone dam is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement, ensuring its structural integrity and operational safety. Despite its age, the dam has been well-maintained, with the last inspection conducted in September 2016. With a maximum discharge capacity of 602 cubic feet per second and a spillway width of 40 feet, Pine Cone dam is equipped to handle potential flood events and excess water flow.

While Pine Cone dam may not be as large or well-known as other structures, its significance in providing irrigation water and supporting local agriculture should not be underestimated. As climate change continues to impact water resources, sustainable management of dams like Pine Cone will be essential for ensuring water security and resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1906

Dam Length

356

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

LEROUX CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

16

Nid Storage

53

Structural Height

16

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate), Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

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.