Tomahawk Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Tomahawk is a privately owned earth dam located in Gunnison, Colorado, specifically in the city of Paonia.


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Summary

It was designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1957 for the primary purpose of irrigation. The dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a hydraulic height of 32 feet, with a length of 388 feet and a storage capacity of 144 acre-feet.

The dam serves multiple purposes including irrigation, fire protection, stock, small fish pond, and recreation. It is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Despite being in fair condition as of the last assessment in September 2019, Tomahawk has a significant hazard potential and a high risk assessment ranking, indicating the need for ongoing risk management measures to ensure its continued safety and functionality.

Located along Muddy Creek, Tomahawk plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. With its historical significance dating back over six decades, the dam remains a key feature in the local landscape and a vital infrastructure for supporting agricultural activities in the area. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the intricate design and engineering behind Tomahawk, as well as the ongoing efforts to maintain its integrity and mitigate potential risks associated with its operation.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

388

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

MUDDY CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Hydraulic Height

32

Nid Storage

144

Structural Height

32

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate), Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

32
       
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.