Coon Creek #1, also known as Griffith Lake, is a private irrigation and recreational dam located in Mesa, Colorado.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1900, this Earth-type dam stands at 19 feet tall and spans a length of 690 feet, with a storage capacity of 557 acre-feet. The dam serves the primary purpose of irrigation, supporting a drainage area associated with Coon Creek.
Despite its age, Coon Creek #1 is regularly inspected and maintained, with the last assessment in July 2020 rating its condition as fair. With a high hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam remains a critical structure for water resource management in the area. Equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and slide gates for outlet control, Coon Creek #1 ensures the safety and stability of its surrounding ecosystem while providing essential water resources for agricultural and recreational purposes.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Coon Creek #1 to be an intriguing example of early 20th-century dam engineering, blending practical irrigation functionality with recreational opportunities. Its location in the picturesque setting of Mesa, Colorado, makes it a unique landmark in the region, showcasing the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1900 |
Dam Length |
690 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
COON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
60 |
Hydraulic Height |
19 |
Nid Storage |
557 |
Structural Height |
19 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
19 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Spruce Grove Campground - Grand Valley RD
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Spruce Grove - Mesa
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Jumbo Campground - Grand Valley RD
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Jumbo
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Moose Manor Cabin
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Black Bear Cabin
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