Teller Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Teller is a Federal-owned dam located in Pueblo, Colorado, along the Turkey Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1908, this Earth-type structure stands at a height of 85 feet and has a length of 650 feet, providing a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 78 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes, including fire protection, stock, flood risk reduction, and recreation, making it a vital asset for the surrounding community.

Managed by the US Army, Teller Dam has a high hazard potential and is regulated by the Department of Water Resources (DWR) in Colorado. Despite its age, the dam is regularly inspected every four years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's spillway, with a width of 70 feet, is uncontrolled, and it has a maximum discharge capacity of 85,000 cubic feet per second, further highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and oversight for this critical water resource.

With its rich history and significant impact on water management in the region, Teller Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management and the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential risks and ensure the safety of surrounding communities and ecosystems. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find Teller Dam to be a fascinating example of how human engineering can both harness and protect vital water resources in a changing climate landscape.

Year Completed

1908

Dam Length

650

Dam Height

85

River Or Stream

Turkey Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

183

Hydraulic Height

85

Drainage Area

78

Nid Storage

5530

Structural Height

85

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

85
       
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.