Macfarlane Dam Reservoir Report

Nearby: Clayton Hap

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Macfarlane Dam, located in Jackson County, Colorado, is a Federal-owned structure with a primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1911, this Earth-type dam stands at 37 feet high and spans a length of 1335 feet, with a storage capacity of 10,000 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Soap Creek and is managed by the Department of the Interior's Fish and Wildlife Service.

Despite its low hazard potential, Macfarlane Dam is currently assessed as being in poor condition, with a risk assessment rating of High (2). The last inspection conducted in September 2018 revealed the need for improvements, and the dam is scheduled for inspection every five years. The outlet gates feature a slide (sluice gate) design, and there are no spillways present. Overall, Macfarlane Dam plays a crucial role in supporting the local ecosystem and providing water resources for fish and wildlife in the area.

As a key component of water resource management in the region, Macfarlane Dam serves as a critical infrastructure for maintaining habitat and supporting diverse wildlife populations. With its location in a scenic and ecologically rich area, the dam represents a vital link in the interconnected network of water bodies and resources. Continued monitoring and maintenance of the dam will be essential to ensure its long-term functionality and safety for both the environment and surrounding communities.

Years Modified

1962 - Other

Year Completed

1911

Dam Length

1335

Dam Height

37

River Or Stream

SOAP CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

526

Hydraulic Height

34

Drainage Area

7.03

Nid Storage

10000

Structural Height

37

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

37
       
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.