Upper Hotel Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Upper Hotel Lake, located in Cedaredge, Colorado, is a privately owned reservoir primarily used for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1886, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a storage capacity of 190 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 109 acre-feet. The dam, situated on Ward Creek, has a spillway width of 14 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 475 cubic feet per second.

Despite being classified as low hazard potential and having a satisfactory condition assessment as of the last inspection in 2015, Upper Hotel Lake poses a high risk due to its location and design. With a drainage area of zero and a surface area of 14 acres, the reservoir serves both irrigation and recreational purposes. The dam's hazard potential level and risk assessment highlight the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure in the face of changing climate conditions.

As water resources and climate enthusiasts, understanding the intricacies of Upper Hotel Lake's design, purpose, and risk profile provides valuable insight into the challenges and considerations associated with managing water infrastructure in a dynamic environment. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, this reservoir serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness between human activities, natural resources, and climate impacts in shaping our water landscapes.

Year Completed

1886

Dam Length

165

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

WARD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

190

Structural Height

15

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate), Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

15
       
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.