Big Beaver, also known as Lake Avery, is a state-owned dam located in Meeker, Colorado, along Big Beaver Creek.
Wind
Humidity
Constructed in 1964, this Earth-type dam stands at an impressive height of 90 feet, with a hydraulic height of 100 feet and a structural height of 102 feet. The dam boasts a capacity of 9,762 acre-feet of water storage, with a normal storage level of 7,658 acre-feet and a surface area of 263 acres, serving primarily as a Fish and Wildlife Pond.
While Big Beaver Dam has a fair condition assessment as of September 2020, it poses a high hazard potential due to its location and design features. The dam's spillway, which is uncontrolled, has a width of 130 feet to manage potential overflow. Despite its moderate risk assessment, regular inspections are conducted to ensure its safety and the emergency action plan is updated as needed. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate in the region are drawn to Big Beaver for its significant contribution to the local ecosystem and its role in water management in the area.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
620 |
Dam Height |
90 |
River Or Stream |
BIG BEAVER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
263 |
Hydraulic Height |
100 |
Drainage Area |
21 |
Nid Storage |
9762 |
Structural Height |
102 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
102 |
White River Below North Elk Creek Near Buford
|
241cfs |
White River Above Coal Creek
|
274cfs |
White River Near Meeker
|
288cfs |
White River Below Meeker
|
318cfs |
Piceance Creek At White River
|
18cfs |
Colorado River Below Glenwood Springs
|
1220cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
South Fork Campground & Trailhead
|
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Meadow Lake Campground
|
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Meadow Lake
|
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East Marvine Campground
|
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Marvine
|
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Marvine Campground
|