Lester Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lester Creek, also known as Pearl Lake, is a recreational dam located in Routt County, Colorado.


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Summary

Completed in 1962, this earth dam stands at a height of 91 feet and has a hydraulic height of 88 feet, providing a storage capacity of 6739 acre-feet. With a surface area of 166 acres and a drainage area of 4 square miles, Lester Creek offers a serene escape for water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Managed by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, Lester Creek is a state-regulated dam with a primary purpose of recreation. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently in fair condition, as assessed during the last inspection in September 2020. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and a slide gate outlet, ensuring proper water flow regulation and safety measures for visitors.

With its picturesque setting and moderate risk assessment, Lester Creek provides an ideal spot for outdoor activities and nature enthusiasts. Whether for boating, fishing, or wildlife observation, this dam on Lester Creek offers a tranquil escape in the heart of Colorado's stunning landscape, making it a must-visit destination for those passionate about water resources and climate conservation.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

525

Dam Height

91

River Or Stream

LESTER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

166

Hydraulic Height

88

Drainage Area

4

Nid Storage

6739

Structural Height

110

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

110
       
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.