Sawmill Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sawmill is a captivating earth dam located in Summit, Colorado, completed in 1890 for recreational purposes along the Sawmill Gulch-OS stream.


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Summary

Owned and regulated by the local government, this dam stands at a height of 17 feet with a length of 180 feet, providing a storage capacity of 40 acre-feet. With a spillway type of "Uncontrolled" and a hazard potential rated as "Significant," Sawmill is a crucial structure for both water resource management and climate enthusiasts.

In 2006, Sawmill underwent significant modifications in its hydraulic, mechanical, and structural aspects, ensuring its continued effectiveness and safety. The dam's condition assessment is rated as "Fair," and it is inspected every two years to ensure its structural integrity. With a moderate risk level and emergency preparedness measures in place, Sawmill serves as an essential component of the water management infrastructure in the region.

Managed by the Department of Water Resources (DWR), Sawmill's historical significance as a recreational dam adds to its allure for water resource and climate enthusiasts. As it continues to play a vital role in the local water system, its strategic location in Breckenridge, Colorado, and its association with the Sawmill Gulch-OS stream make it a focal point for those interested in sustainable water resource management and the impact of climate change on dam infrastructure.

Years Modified

2006 - Hydraulic, 2006 - Mechanical, 2006 - Structural

Year Completed

1890

Dam Length

180

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

SAWMILL GULCH-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

17

Nid Storage

40

Structural Height

17

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, 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.