East Branch Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

East Branch is a private water supply dam located in Parshall, Colorado, along the Ute Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1971 by Wheeler and Associates, this earth dam stands at a height of 120 feet and has a hydraulic height of 130 feet. With a storage capacity of 2986 acre-feet and a surface area of 68 acres, East Branch serves as a crucial resource for the surrounding area, ensuring a reliable water supply for its residents.

The dam is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources (DWR) and undergoes regular inspections to maintain its satisfactory condition. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam has been deemed to meet safety guidelines and has a moderate risk assessment rating. In case of emergencies, a thorough Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is in place, with the last revision dating back to June 2016. With a spillway width of 6 feet and a maximum discharge of 550 cubic feet per second, East Branch is equipped to handle potential overflow events effectively.

Overall, East Branch is a vital infrastructure for water resource management in Grand County, Colorado, providing a reliable source of water for the local community. With its solid construction, regular inspections, and emergency preparedness measures, this dam plays a crucial role in ensuring water security and safety in the region. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the significance of East Branch as a key player in the sustainable management of water resources in the area.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

860

Dam Height

120

River Or Stream

UTE CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

68

Hydraulic Height

130

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

2986

Structural Height

150

Outlet Gates

Valve

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

150
       
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.