Goose Pasture Tarn Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Goose Pasture Tarn, located in Summit County, Colorado, is a picturesque reservoir with a primary purpose of recreation and water supply.


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Summary

Constructed in 1965, this earth dam stands at a height of 57 feet and has a storage capacity of 2026 acre-feet. The dam, managed by the local government, is situated along the Blue River and plays a vital role in providing water for the surrounding area.

With a surface area of 68 acres and a drainage area of 42 square miles, Goose Pasture Tarn offers a serene setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy various recreational activities. Despite its high hazard potential and unsatisfactory condition assessment, the dam has an uncontrolled spillway and one outlet gate. Recent inspections in May 2020 revealed the need for structural and hydraulic modifications, highlighting the importance of ongoing maintenance and risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of this essential water resource.

As climate change continues to impact water resources, the management and maintenance of dams like Goose Pasture Tarn are crucial for ensuring water supply reliability and mitigating potential hazards. With its stunning natural surroundings and vital role in water storage and recreation, Goose Pasture Tarn serves as a valuable asset for the community and a reminder of the importance of sustainable water resource management in a changing climate.

Years Modified

1991 - Hydraulic, 1991 - Structural

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

550

Dam Height

57

River Or Stream

BLUE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

68

Hydraulic Height

55

Drainage Area

42

Nid Storage

2026

Structural Height

71

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

71
       
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.