Leon Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Leon Lake, also known as Two-Sides, is a privately owned water resource nestled in Mesa County, Colorado.


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Summary

Built in 1898, this earth dam stands 30 feet tall and spans 110 feet in length, providing irrigation water for the area. With a normal storage capacity of 2339 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 772 cubic feet per second, Leon Lake plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the region.

Despite its age, Leon Lake maintains a fair condition assessment and has a high hazard potential due to its uncontrolled spillway type. The dam has undergone several modifications over the years, including hydraulic, mechanical, and structural improvements in 1950 and 1987. With two slide gates for outlet control, the dam is inspected annually to ensure its reliability and safety. In the event of an emergency, the risk assessment categorizes Leon Lake as having a moderate risk level, emphasizing the importance of effective risk management measures for the surrounding community.

Located in the picturesque city of Collbran, Leon Lake not only serves as a vital irrigation source but also offers recreational opportunities for visitors to enjoy its serene surroundings. With its historical significance dating back over a century, this reservoir continues to play a significant role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

Years Modified

1950 - Hydraulic, 1950 - Mechanical, 1987 - Structural

Year Completed

1898

Dam Length

110

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

MIDDLE LEON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

132

Hydraulic Height

27

Nid Storage

3840

Structural Height

30

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 2

Hazard Potential

High

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.