Way Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Way, also known as Coulter, is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Kremmling, Colorado.


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Summary

Built in 1941 by designer B.T. Chase, this Earth-type dam has a height of 20 feet and a length of 560 feet, with a storage capacity of 145 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is irrigation, serving the Beaver Creek-OS river/stream system in Grand County. The dam has a low hazard potential and is in fair condition, with the last inspection conducted in August 2017.

Despite its age, Way dam continues to play a vital role in water resource management in the region, providing water for irrigation, fire protection, livestock, and small fish pond purposes. With a maximum discharge capacity of 400 cubic feet per second, the dam is equipped with a slide gate outlet for water release. While the risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, the dam meets state regulatory requirements for inspection, enforcement, and permitting, ensuring its continued safe operation in the face of changing climate conditions.

As climate change impacts water resources, structures like Way dam become increasingly important in managing water supply and demand. With its strategic location and historical significance, Way dam stands as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of water infrastructure in the face of evolving environmental challenges. As water enthusiasts and climate advocates, understanding and supporting the stewardship of dams like Way is crucial for ensuring sustainable water management practices for future generations.

Year Completed

1941

Dam Length

560

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

BEAVER CREEK-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

145

Structural Height

20

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

20
       
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.