Hughes is a privately owned dam located in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, along Three Mile Creek.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1935, this earth dam stands at 18 feet high and serves primarily for irrigation purposes, with additional recreational benefits. The dam has a storage capacity of 416 acre-feet and a normal storage of 88 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 24 acres and draining a 7-square mile area.
Despite being classified with a significant hazard potential, Hughes is currently in fair condition as of the last inspection in June 2019. The dam has undergone multiple modifications over the years, including structural, hydraulic, and mechanical improvements to ensure its safety and functionality. With a spillway width of 16 feet and an uncontrolled spillway type, Hughes remains a vital infrastructure for water resource management in the region, with a moderate risk assessment rating.
Overall, Hughes dam stands as a crucial piece of water infrastructure in Garfield County, Colorado, providing irrigation water and recreational opportunities to the community. With ongoing maintenance and periodic inspections, the dam continues to play a significant role in water resource management along Three Mile Creek, showcasing the importance of sustainable infrastructure for climate and water resource enthusiasts.
Years Modified |
1985 - Structural, 1993 - Hydraulic, 1993 - Structural, 2000 - Mechanical, 2000 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
170 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
THREE MILE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
24 |
Hydraulic Height |
9 |
Drainage Area |
7 |
Nid Storage |
416 |
Structural Height |
19 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
19 |