Garnet Mesa, also known as Sweitzer Lake, is a state-owned recreational facility located in Delta, Colorado.
Wind
Humidity
The dam, completed in 1954, serves multiple purposes such as creating a fish and wildlife pond and providing recreational activities for visitors. The earth dam stands at a height of 39 feet, with a spillway width of 50 feet, allowing for a maximum discharge of 2200 cubic feet per second. The reservoir has a normal storage capacity of 1333 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 139 acres.
Managed by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, Garnet Mesa is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state agency. The dam has a high hazard potential and is rated in fair condition, with the last inspection conducted in October 2020. Emergency action plans are in place, meeting guidelines for risk management and ensuring public safety in case of any unforeseen events. With its picturesque location near the Uncompahgre River, Garnet Mesa offers a serene setting for outdoor enthusiasts and climate advocates to appreciate and enjoy.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
659 |
Dam Height |
39 |
River Or Stream |
UNCOMPAHGRE RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
139 |
Hydraulic Height |
39 |
Drainage Area |
8 |
Nid Storage |
1980 |
Structural Height |
41 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate), Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
41 |
Uncompahgre River At Delta
|
246cfs |
Gunnison River At Delta
|
529cfs |
North Fk Gunnison River Above Mouth Nr Lazear
|
153cfs |
Surface Creek At Cedaredge
|
4cfs |
N.F. Gunnison R Blw Leroux Cr
|
103cfs |
Smith Fork Near Lazear
|
0cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Duncan Cabin
|
||
Escargot
|
||
Duncan Point
|
||
Upper Duncan
|
||
Caddis Camp
|
||
Middle Camp
|