Hot Springs Creek is a privately owned dam located in Gunnison, Colorado, with a primary purpose of irrigation.
Wind
Humidity
The Earth-type dam, completed in 1956, stands at a height of 45 feet and has a storage capacity of 587 acre-feet. The dam spans 250 feet in length and has a hydraulic height of 50 feet, providing essential water resources for the surrounding area.
With a low hazard potential but fair condition assessment, Hot Springs Creek dam is regularly inspected by the Colorado Division of Water Resources to ensure its structural integrity and operational safety. Despite its age, the dam continues to play a crucial role in managing water resources for irrigation purposes, with a maximum discharge capacity of 1300 cubic feet per second. The surrounding area benefits from the reservoir's 29-acre surface area and its ability to store up to 442 acre-feet of water under normal conditions.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams like Hot Springs Creek to ensure the sustainable management of water supplies in regions like Gunnison, Colorado. The dam's location in a high-risk area underscores the need for continued risk assessment and management measures to safeguard against potential emergencies. As a key component of the local water infrastructure, Hot Springs Creek serves as a vital resource for irrigation and highlights the intersection of water management, climate considerations, and regulatory oversight in the region.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
250 |
Dam Height |
45 |
River Or Stream |
HOT SPRINGS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
29 |
Hydraulic Height |
50 |
Drainage Area |
25 |
Nid Storage |
587 |
Structural Height |
60 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate), Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
60 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Comanche
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Snowblind
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Snowblind Campground - Gunnison RD
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Pitkin Campground - Gunnison RD
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Pitkin
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Quartz Campground - Gunnison RD
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