Hermit #3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hermit #3 is a privately-owned earth dam located in Hinsdale County, Colorado, specifically in the city of South Fork.


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Summary

It was completed in 1965 and serves primarily for recreational purposes, including fish and wildlife ponds. The dam stands at a height of 10 feet and has a length of 630 feet, with a storage capacity of 120 acre-feet and a surface area of 12 acres.

Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Hermit #3 poses a high risk due to its location and the potential impact of a breach on downstream areas. The dam is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources and undergoes regular inspections, with the last one conducted in June 2008. With a maximum discharge capacity of 4250 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Hermit #3 offers a fascinating case study in the intersection of infrastructure, recreation, and environmental management. Its presence on South Clear Creek contributes to the local ecosystem while also serving as a potential risk factor. Understanding the complexities of dam management and the delicate balance between conservation and public safety is essential for ensuring the sustainable use of water resources in the region.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

630

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

SOUTH CLEAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

7

Nid Storage

120

Structural Height

10

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

10
       
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.