Mcelroy Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mcelroy is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Kremmling, Colorado, along the Pass Creek river.


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Summary

Completed in 1931, this earth dam stands at a height of 40 feet and has a hydraulic height of 50 feet, with a storage capacity of 355 acre-feet. The dam serves the primary purpose of irrigation, with a normal storage capacity of 240 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 3478 cubic feet per second.

Despite its age, Mcelroy has been deemed to have a low hazard potential and is in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in May 2019. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 50 feet and has not undergone any significant modifications in recent years. It is subject to state regulation and inspection, with the Colorado Department of Water Resources overseeing permitting, inspection, and enforcement activities to ensure the safety and functionality of the structure.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Mcelroy to be an intriguing example of early 20th-century irrigation infrastructure in Colorado. Its proximity to Kremmling and the Pass Creek river, along with its moderate risk assessment rating, offer a unique case study for understanding the management and operation of dams in the region. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, Mcelroy provides valuable insights into the intersection of water resource management, infrastructure development, and environmental stewardship in the state.

Year Completed

1931

Dam Length

150

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

PASS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

50

Drainage Area

17

Nid Storage

355

Structural Height

46

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

50
       
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.