Hay Press Park - Dam #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Hay Press Park in South Fork, Colorado, Dam #1, also known as Hay Press Park - South Dam, stands as a testament to engineering excellence since its completion in 1922.


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Summary

Designed by Carl A. Gould, this private earth dam serves multiple purposes, including hydroelectric power generation, fish and wildlife conservation, and recreational activities. With a height of 27 feet and a length of 395 feet, the dam creates a reservoir with a storage capacity of 269 acre-feet, providing essential water resources for the surrounding area.

Situated on Goose Creek-TR, Dam #1 plays a vital role in managing water flow and supporting the local ecosystem. With a spillway width of 11 feet and an uncontrolled spillway type, the dam has a low hazard potential and a fair condition assessment as of its last inspection in July 2017. The dam's moderate risk level is mitigated by regular inspections, enforcement, and emergency preparedness measures. Its picturesque location and historical significance make Hay Press Park - Dam #1 a must-visit destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to appreciate the intersection of nature and human ingenuity in water management.

Year Completed

1922

Dam Length

395

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

GOOSE CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

23

Hydraulic Height

27

Nid Storage

269

Structural Height

30

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

30
       
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.