Upper Dome Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mcdonough #2 Mcdonough #1
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Upper Dome is a state-regulated dam located in Saguache, Colorado, specifically in the city of Gunnison.
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Summary
Completed in 1975, this Earth type dam stands at a height of 33 feet with a hydraulic height of 38 feet and a structural height of 50 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 880 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 1330 acre-feet, Upper Dome serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond for recreational purposes. The dam spans 540 feet in length and has a surface area of 75 acres, providing essential habitat for local wildlife.
Managed by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, Upper Dome has a low hazard potential but a very high risk assessment due to its age and condition. The dam is equipped with a controlled spillway, outlet gates, and has a maximum discharge capacity of 850 cubic feet per second. Despite its fair condition assessment as of August 2019, the dam undergoes inspections every six years to ensure its continued safety and functionality. Surrounding Cochtopa Creek-TR, Upper Dome plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and providing environmental benefits to the region.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate Upper Dome's significance in supporting fish and wildlife populations, as well as its role in recreational activities. As a vital structure within the local watershed, this dam not only provides storage for water resources but also helps in flood control and habitat preservation. With its state-regulated status and adherence to inspection and enforcement protocols, Upper Dome showcases the commitment to sustainable water management practices in Colorado.
Year Completed |
1975 |
Dam Length |
540 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
COCHTOPA CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
75 |
Hydraulic Height |
38 |
Drainage Area |
60 |
Nid Storage |
1330 |
Structural Height |
50 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate), Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
50 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Cochetopa Site #1
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Luders Creek
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Luders Creek Campground
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Cochetopa Site #2
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Cochetopa Site #3
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Cochetopa Site #4
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Upper Dome