Saliba Lake Reservoir Report

Nearby: Lajoya Levy

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Saliba Lake, also known as Antonio Valdez, is a private water resource located in Huerfano County, Colorado.


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Summary

Built in 1907 for irrigation purposes, this earth dam stands at a height of 42 feet and stretches 600 feet in length. With a maximum storage capacity of 7,280 acre-feet and a surface area of 300 acres, Saliba Lake plays a crucial role in providing water for fire protection, stock, small fish ponds, irrigation, and recreation in the area.

Managed by the Colorado Division of Water Resources, Saliba Lake has a low hazard potential and is currently in fair condition as of the last inspection in September 2015. The lake sits along the Hezron Gulch and is regulated by the state, with permitting, inspection, and enforcement procedures in place. Despite the high risk assessment due to its location and surrounding factors, Saliba Lake continues to serve as an essential water source for the community, highlighting the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of a changing climate.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience will appreciate the historical significance and functional diversity of Saliba Lake. As a vital component of the local irrigation system, this private reservoir holds a significant amount of water and supports various uses, from agriculture to recreation. With its age and condition in mind, continued monitoring and maintenance are essential to ensure the longevity and safety of Saliba Lake, underscoring the importance of proactive water management practices in the context of a rapidly changing environment.

Year Completed

1907

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

42

River Or Stream

HEZRON GULCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

300

Hydraulic Height

42

Drainage Area

13

Nid Storage

7280

Structural Height

42

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

42
       
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.