Palisade Cabin Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Palisade Cabin, also known as Cabin Reservoir, is a local government-owned structure located in Palisade, Colorado.


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Summary

This dam, completed in 1956, serves as a vital water supply source for the surrounding area, with a storage capacity of 1120 acre-feet. The dam stands at a height of 88 feet and has a hydraulic height of 86 feet, making it a significant infrastructure for water management in the region.

With a surface area of 27 acres and a maximum discharge capacity of 102 cubic feet per second, Palisade Cabin plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and storage. The dam's primary purpose is water supply, and it is a state-regulated structure with ongoing inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, Palisade Cabin is rated as being in fair condition, with moderate risk management measures in place.

The dam features two slide gates as outlet gates and has undergone modifications in 1983 to enhance its foundation, hydraulic, mechanical, and structural components. Its design by Clifford H. Jex and Woodward Clyde, using stone core and soil foundation, reflects a blend of engineering expertise and environmental considerations. As a cornerstone of water resource management in Mesa County, Palisade Cabin stands as a testament to sustainable infrastructure development in the face of evolving climate challenges.

Years Modified

1983 - Foundation, 1983 - Hydraulic, 1983 - Mechanical, 1983 - Other, 1983 - Structural

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

1068

Dam Height

88

River Or Stream

COTTONWOOD CREEK-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

27

Hydraulic Height

86

Nid Storage

1120

Structural Height

113

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 2

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

113
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.