Castle #4 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Castle #4, also known as Pearl Lake, is a private fish and wildlife pond nestled in Hinsdale, Colorado.


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Summary

Built in 1928, this earth dam stands at a height of 14 feet and spans a length of 1030 feet, providing a storage capacity of 167 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of serving as a fish and wildlife habitat, Castle #4 also caters to recreational activities in the area.

Located on North Clear Creek in South Fork, Colorado, Castle #4 boasts a surface area of 30 acres and a drainage area of 24 square miles. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has a high risk assessment rating of 2. Although last inspected in 1989, the dam remains in a condition that has not been rated, indicating the need for updated evaluations to ensure its safety and functionality for the surrounding environment.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate Castle #4 for its historical significance as a vital structure supporting the local ecosystem and recreational pursuits. As a regulated and inspected dam in Colorado, its presence contributes to the conservation efforts and water management strategies in the region. While its risk assessment highlights the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance, Castle #4 remains a valuable asset for wildlife preservation and outdoor enjoyment in the picturesque surroundings of Hinsdale County.

Year Completed

1928

Dam Length

1030

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

NORTH CLEAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

30

Hydraulic Height

14

Drainage Area

24

Nid Storage

167

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

18
       
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.