Hunters Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Hunters Lake, located in Mineral County, Colorado, is a privately owned reservoir primarily used for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1926, this earth dam stands at a height of 7 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 69 acre-feet. With a surface area of 15 acres, the reservoir is fed by Lake Creek and has a drainage area of 0 square miles.

Despite its low hazard potential, Hunters Lake poses a high risk due to its condition assessment being "Not Rated" and the last inspection dating back to September 1985. The lack of updated emergency action plans and risk management measures raises concerns for potential hazards. The reservoir's spillway type is listed as "None," highlighting the need for further evaluation and maintenance to ensure the safety and sustainability of this water resource in the face of changing climate conditions.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find Hunters Lake to be a fascinating case study in the intersection of infrastructure management, environmental stewardship, and climate resilience. As the demand for water resources continues to grow and the impacts of climate change become increasingly pronounced, the maintenance and regulation of reservoirs like Hunters Lake will be crucial in ensuring the long-term sustainability and safety of water sources for both human and ecological needs.

Year Completed

1926

Dam Length

145

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

LAKE CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Hydraulic Height

7

Nid Storage

69

Structural Height

7

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

7
       
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.