Hermit #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Hermit #1 is a historic earth dam located in Hinsdale County, Colorado, along the South Clear Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1889 for recreational purposes, the dam stands at 13 feet high and stretches 970 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 749 acre-feet, it serves as a fish and wildlife pond while also providing opportunities for outdoor recreation in the area.

Despite its age, Hermit #1 has been regularly inspected and maintained, with its last inspection in July 2020 yielding a satisfactory condition assessment. The dam is categorized with a low hazard potential but is deemed to have a high risk due to its age and design characteristics. Emergency action plans and risk management measures are yet to be fully documented for this structure, highlighting the importance of continued monitoring and preparedness in the face of potential climate-related challenges.

Located in a picturesque setting and managed by private ownership, Hermit #1 stands as a testament to Colorado's water resource infrastructure history. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of this dam in the region's landscape and the need for ongoing risk assessment and management is crucial for ensuring the safety and sustainability of this recreational water feature.

Year Completed

1889

Dam Length

970

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

SOUTH CLEAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

91

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

8

Nid Storage

749

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

13
       
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.