Skim Milk Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Skim Milk is a private dam located in Hotchkiss, Colorado, along the Leroux Creek-TR.


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Summary

Built in 1904 for irrigation purposes, this earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and spans 825 feet in length. With a normal storage capacity of 84 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 205 cubic feet per second, Skim Milk plays a crucial role in providing water supply to the surrounding areas.

Despite its age, Skim Milk has been well-maintained, with a fair condition assessment and a low hazard potential. The dam is regularly inspected by the state regulatory agency, DWR, with the last inspection conducted in July 2020. With a risk assessment rating of 2 (high), it is important for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor and ensure the safety and integrity of Skim Milk to prevent any potential risks or hazards.

Overall, Skim Milk serves as a vital infrastructure for irrigation and water supply in the Delta County region of Colorado. Its historical significance, alongside its functional importance, highlights the ongoing efforts to manage and maintain water resources in the area. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, dams like Skim Milk play a crucial role in sustainable water management practices.

Year Completed

1904

Dam Length

825

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

LEROUX CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

16

Nid Storage

99

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.