Wildcat Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Wildcat is a private dam located in Pitkin County, Colorado, specifically in the city of Basalt.


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Summary

Built in 1953, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 75 feet and has a structural height of 94 feet, with a length of 1120 feet. Its primary purpose is for recreation, with a normal storage capacity of 1100 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 1520 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Wildcat Creek and serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities in the area.

The Wildcat dam has a high hazard potential and is regulated by the Colorado Division of Water Resources, with the necessary permits, inspections, and enforcement in place. The dam underwent modifications in 1971 to improve its foundation, hydraulic, mechanical, and other components. Its spillway, which is uncontrolled, has a width of 70 feet. The dam's condition is assessed as satisfactory, with the last inspection conducted in July 2020, and a risk assessment categorizes it as moderate.

Despite its risk potential, Wildcat continues to provide a valuable recreational resource for the community, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities. With its scenic location and historical significance, the dam serves as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

Years Modified

1971 - Foundation, 1971 - Hydraulic, 1971 - Mechanical, 1971 - Other

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

1120

Dam Height

75

River Or Stream

WILDCAT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

50

Hydraulic Height

75

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

1520

Structural Height

94

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

94
       
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.