Stell Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Stell Lake, located in Cedaredge, Colorado, is a privately owned water resource managed by the USDA NRCS.


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Summary

This reservoir, completed in 1956, serves the primary purpose of irrigation and has a storage capacity of 105 acre-feet. The dam, classified as an earth dam with stone core and soil foundation, stands at a height of 16 feet and has a hydraulic height of 14 feet. With a surface area of 8 acres and a maximum discharge of 691 cubic feet per second, Stell Lake plays a crucial role in water management and agricultural activities in the region.

Despite being assessed as having a low hazard potential and fair condition, Stell Lake is considered to have a high risk level, indicating potential vulnerabilities that need to be addressed. The dam does not have a spillway and relies on slide gates for water release, with inspections conducted every 6 years to ensure its structural integrity. The surrounding area is at risk of inundation in case of a breach, highlighting the importance of ongoing risk management and emergency preparedness measures. As a key component of the local water infrastructure, the maintenance and monitoring of Stell Lake are essential for ensuring the safety and sustainability of water resources in the region.

With its crucial role in irrigation and water supply, Stell Lake serves as a vital resource for the community and agriculture in Delta County, Colorado. Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this reservoir provides a reliable source of water for farming and other activities in the area. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the sustainable management of Stell Lake is essential for ensuring the long-term resilience of the region's water resources. By staying vigilant in monitoring and maintaining this infrastructure, stakeholders can mitigate risks and adapt to changing environmental conditions, safeguarding the future of water security in the area.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

660

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

SURFACE CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

14

Nid Storage

105

Structural Height

17

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate), Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

17
       
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.