Poage is a privately owned Earth dam located in Rio Grande, Colorado, specifically in the city of South Fork.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1906 for irrigation purposes, the dam spans 494 feet in length and stands at a height of 27 feet, with a storage capacity of 602 acre-feet. It is situated on the Beaver Creek and is regulated by the Colorado Division of Water Resources, with inspection, permitting, and enforcement activities all being carried out by the state.
The dam has a low hazard potential and is considered to be in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in July 2017. It features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 421 feet and is equipped with a single slide (sluice gate) outlet gate. Despite its age, the dam poses a moderate risk level and undergoes inspections every 6 years to ensure its continued safety and functionality.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the historical significance of Poage Dam and its vital role in supporting irrigation, fish and wildlife habitats, and recreational activities in the region. With its unique design and location on the Beaver Creek, Poage serves as a valuable example of early water management infrastructure in Colorado, highlighting the ongoing efforts to maintain and regulate such structures for the benefit of both local communities and the environment.
Year Completed |
1906 |
Dam Length |
494 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
BEAVER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
29 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
602 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
27 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Beaver Creek Site 2
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Beaver Creek Site 1
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Cross Creek
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Tucker Ponds Campground
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Tucker Ponds
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Park Creek camp #1
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