Mckelvie #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mckelvie #1, also known as Bob Mcelvie, is a private irrigation dam located in Mesa, Colorado, along the Plateau Creek.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1911, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 32 feet and has a length of 450 feet, with a storage capacity of 357 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources and undergoes regular inspections, with the last assessment conducted in August 2020, rating its condition as fair with low hazard potential.

Despite its age, Mckelvie #1 remains a vital resource for agricultural water supply in the area, contributing to the irrigation needs of the surrounding farmland. The dam's spillway, with a width of 25 feet, is uncontrolled, allowing for controlled release of excess water during periods of high discharge. The dam has also undergone modifications in 1959 to enhance its structural integrity, ensuring its continued functionality and safety for the community it serves.

While the dam presents a moderate risk level, with a risk assessment rating of 3, there are no current emergency action plans in place. However, with a designated emergency contact and regular inspections, the dam is well-maintained and monitored to mitigate potential hazards. Mckelvie #1 stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience in sustaining agricultural activities in the region.

Years Modified

1959 - Structural

Year Completed

1911

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

PLATEAU CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

19

Hydraulic Height

32

Nid Storage

357

Structural Height

36

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

36
       
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.