Park Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Garfield, Colorado, the Park Dam, also known as West Elk, stands as a crucial infrastructure for irrigation purposes since its completion in 1906.


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Summary

This private-owned Earth dam on West Elk Creek boasts a height of 38 feet and a length of 520 feet, with a storage capacity of 174 acre-feet. With a significant hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam is under state regulation and receives regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety.

Managed by the Colorado Division of Water Resources, the Park Dam plays a vital role in water resource management in the area, serving as a key irrigation source for agricultural activities. With a spillway type of uncontrolled and a maximum discharge capacity of 390 cubic feet per second, the dam is designed to handle and control water flow effectively. Despite its age, the dam continues to be operational and meets regulatory standards for inspection, enforcement, and permitting, highlighting its importance in sustaining water availability for the surrounding community.

As an integral part of the water infrastructure in New Castle, Colorado, the Park Dam not only provides essential irrigation water but also contributes to the local ecosystem and economy. With a moderate risk assessment rating and regular maintenance efforts, the dam demonstrates a commitment to ensuring public safety and water resource sustainability. Its historical significance and functional role make it a noteworthy site for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of infrastructure, environmental conservation, and community development.

Year Completed

1906

Dam Length

520

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

WEST ELK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Hydraulic Height

38

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

174

Structural Height

41

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

41
       
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.