Troutvale #1 (Upper) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Troutvale #1 (Upper), also known as Upper Browns Lake, is a state-owned water resource located in Hinsdale, Colorado, specifically in the city of South Fork.


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Summary

Completed in 1911, this fish and wildlife pond serves as a crucial habitat for various species and is regulated by the Colorado Division of Water Resources. With a significant hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam stands at 12 feet in height and has a storage capacity of 660 acre-feet.

Situated along South Clear Creek, Troutvale #1 (Upper) covers a surface area of 121 acres and has a drainage area of 15 square miles. The dam boasts a spillway width of 136 feet and is equipped with a slide (sluice gate) outlet gate. With a maximum discharge capacity of 2077 cubic feet per second, this earth dam serves multiple purposes including recreation, making it a valuable asset for both water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Despite its age, Troutvale #1 (Upper) undergoes regular inspections, with the last assessment completed in August 2020. Classified as a moderate risk structure, the dam has a risk assessment score of 3. With its historical significance dating back over a century and its essential role in supporting local wildlife and recreational activities, Troutvale #1 (Upper) remains a captivating site for those interested in water resource management and climate conservation efforts.

Year Completed

1911

Dam Length

1335

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

SOUTH CLEAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

121

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

15

Nid Storage

660

Structural Height

12

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

12
       
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.