Upper Black Creek Res Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Upper Black Creek Reservoir, also known as Blue Lake, is a private water resource located in Summit County, Colorado.


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Summary

Constructed in 1957, this reservoir serves multiple purposes, including irrigation and recreation for the local community. With a dam height of 41 feet and a maximum storage capacity of 672 acre-feet, the reservoir covers an area of 21 acres and has a drainage area of 16 square miles.

Despite its importance for water supply and recreational activities, Upper Black Creek Reservoir poses a significant hazard potential and has been assessed as unsatisfactory in condition. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and a single slide gate for outlet control. The reservoir is regulated by the Colorado Division of Water Resources and undergoes regular inspections, with the last assessment conducted in June 2020. Although the risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, there is a need for ongoing risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the dam structure.

In the event of an emergency, the reservoir is equipped with emergency action plans, although the last revision was in 2011. With its location in a picturesque setting near Black Creek and Kremmling, Upper Black Creek Reservoir remains a valuable water resource for the region, while also highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring to mitigate potential risks associated with dam infrastructure.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

269

Dam Height

41

River Or Stream

BLACK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

21

Hydraulic Height

40

Drainage Area

16

Nid Storage

672

Structural Height

48

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

48
       
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.