Bristol Head #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bristol Head #1, also known as Lower Bristol Head or Lower Seepage, is a privately owned earth dam located in South Fork, Colorado.


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Summary

Built in 1921 for irrigation purposes, this dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet. Situated on Seepage Creek with a drainage area of 4 square miles, the dam has a spillway width of 10 feet and a maximum discharge of 210 cubic feet per second.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Bristol Head #1 has been assessed as unsatisfactory in condition, with the last inspection conducted in November 2018. The dam's risk assessment is moderate, indicating a level 3 risk. With a history of state regulation and inspection, this structure plays a crucial role in supporting local irrigation activities. Its location in Mineral County highlights the importance of maintaining and monitoring water resources in the region to ensure the safety and sustainability of the surrounding ecosystem.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intricate details of dam infrastructure and management will find Bristol Head #1 a fascinating case study. With its historical significance, engineering specifications, and risk assessment data, this dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human development and environmental stewardship in water resource management. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, understanding and maintaining structures like Bristol Head #1 will be crucial for ensuring the resilience of our water systems in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1921

Dam Length

275

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

SEEPAGE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

4

Nid Storage

200

Structural Height

15

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
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.