Big Creek #5 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Big Creek #5, also known as Silver Lake, is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Mesa County, Colorado.


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Summary

Built in 1894, this earth dam stands at a height of 19 feet and spans 232 feet in length, holding a maximum storage capacity of 183 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes including irrigation, recreation, and water supply for the surrounding area.

Despite being classified with a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam underwent modifications in 1966 to enhance its hydraulic, mechanical, and structural features. With a controlled spillway width of 26 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 355 cubic feet per second, Big Creek #5 is equipped to manage excess water flow effectively. The dam is under the regulatory oversight of the Colorado Department of Water Resources, ensuring regular inspections and enforcement of safety measures.

In the event of an emergency, the dam has a slide gate outlet for water release and has a moderate risk assessment rating. While the dam has not had an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) updated recently, it meets regulatory guidelines. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance, Big Creek #5 remains a crucial water resource infrastructure for the Plateau City area in Colorado.

Years Modified

1966 - Hydraulic, 1966 - Mechanical, 1966 - Structural

Year Completed

1894

Dam Length

232

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

BIG CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Hydraulic Height

19

Drainage Area

11

Nid Storage

183

Structural Height

19

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

19
       
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.