Built in 1941 by designers B. T. Chase and Herbert Ritschard, this dam serves multiple purposes including irrigation, fire protection, stock maintenance, and water supply. With a height of 60 feet and a length of 775 feet, Whiteley Peak has a storage capacity of 1095 acre-feet, making it a crucial water resource in the region.
Managed by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, Whiteley Peak is regulated and inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency. The dam has a spillway width of 15 feet and is equipped with a slide gate for controlled water release. Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam's condition is currently assessed as fair, with moderate risk management measures in place to mitigate any potential threats.
With a drainage area of 17 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 3675 cubic feet per second, Whiteley Peak plays a vital role in water management and conservation efforts in Grand County, Colorado. Its historical significance, combined with its practical utility for irrigation and other purposes, makes it a noteworthy structure for water resource and climate enthusiasts to study and appreciate.
Years Modified |
1970 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1941 |
Dam Length |
775 |
Dam Height |
60 |
River Or Stream |
DIAMOND CR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
46 |
Hydraulic Height |
60 |
Drainage Area |
17 |
Nid Storage |
1095 |
Structural Height |
62 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
62 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Rabbit Ears Pass Camp
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Dumont Lake Campground
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Dumont Lake
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Walton Creek
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Red Dirt Reservoir Recreation Area
|
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Meadows
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