Lake Moraine Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Moraine, located in Manitou Springs, Colorado, is a captivating water resource for climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

This local government-owned reservoir, regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, serves as a vital water supply source for the region. Built in 1891, this Earth type dam stands at a height of 55 feet and has a storage capacity of 2150 acre-feet, with a surface area of 77 acres and a drainage area of 2 square miles. The dam's primary purpose is water supply, with secondary purposes including hydroelectric power generation.

The dam's spillway, of uncontrolled type, features a width of 100 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 10,120 cubic feet per second. Despite its fair condition assessment, Lake Moraine presents a high hazard potential due to its location and structural features. Regular inspections and enforcement activities by state agencies ensure the dam's safety and integrity, with an emergency action plan in place to mitigate risks. With its historical significance and vital role in water management, Lake Moraine stands as a symbol of sustainable water resource management in the face of climate challenges.

Year Completed

1891

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

42

River Or Stream

RUXTON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

77

Hydraulic Height

32

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

2150

Structural Height

55

Outlet Gates

Valve

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

55
       
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.