Lake Emrich Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Lake Emrich, located in Routt County, Colorado, is a privately owned reservoir primarily used for irrigation purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1911, this earth dam stands at a height of 31 feet and stretches 631 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 621 acre-feet. The reservoir covers an area of 40 acres and is fed by Dry Creek-TR, providing water for fire protection, stock, small fish ponds, recreation, and water supply.
Despite its low hazard potential, an inspection in 2018 rated Lake Emrich's condition as unsatisfactory. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 20 feet, and the maximum discharge capacity is 691 cubic feet per second. The risk assessment for the reservoir is moderate, with a rating of 3 out of 5, highlighting the importance of continued monitoring and risk management measures to ensure its safety and stability.
With its picturesque location and diverse water usage, Lake Emrich serves as a vital resource for the community of Hayden. As climate change impacts water resources, the proper maintenance and management of this reservoir are essential to safeguarding its functionality and sustainability for future generations of water resource and climate enthusiasts.
Year Completed |
1911 |
Dam Length |
631 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
DRY CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
40 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
621 |
Structural Height |
31 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
31 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Lake Emrich
Pumphouse to Double Bridges