Dawson Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Dawson, also known as Lambert, is a private irrigation dam located in Plateau City, Mesa County, Colorado.


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Summary

Completed in 1911, this earth dam stands at a height of 18 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 290 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is irrigation, with a normal storage capacity of 219 acre-feet and a surface area of 29 acres.

Managed by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, Dawson has a state-regulated status with permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. The dam has undergone modifications over the years, with updates in 1968 and subsequent structural improvements in 1998 and 2002. With a low hazard potential and a fair condition assessment as of the last inspection in August 2018, Dawson poses a moderate risk level with risk management measures yet to be specified.

Despite its moderate risk profile, Dawson remains a vital water resource structure in the region, providing irrigation water for agricultural activities in the area. Climate enthusiasts and water resource professionals can appreciate the history, design, and operational details of Dawson as a key element in the local water management system. Its location on the East Fork Big Creek-TR and its role in sustaining the surrounding landscape make Dawson a noteworthy asset in Colorado's water infrastructure.

Years Modified

1968 - Hydraulic, 1968 - Mechanical, 1968 - Structural, 1998 - Structural, 2002 - Structural

Year Completed

1911

Dam Length

1219

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

E FORK BIG CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

29

Hydraulic Height

19

Nid Storage

290

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.