Summary
This state-regulated fish and wildlife pond, completed in 1927, covers a surface area of 61 acres and has a maximum storage capacity of 1,025 acre-feet. The dam, standing at a height of 26 feet, serves multiple purposes including recreation and supporting local wildlife.
Managed by the Colorado Division of Water Resources, Haviland Lake's dam features an uncontrolled spillway and a slide (sluice gate) outlet. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition has not been rated recently. The surrounding Elbert Creek-TR river and stream ecosystem benefits from Haviland Lake's presence, with a drainage area of 4 square miles and a maximum discharge rate of 585 cubic feet per second. Visitors to Haviland Lake can appreciate its scenic beauty while also recognizing its importance in supporting local biodiversity and recreational activities.
For those interested in water resource management and conservation efforts, Haviland Lake stands as a prime example of balancing human recreation with ecological stewardship. With a history dating back nearly a century, this Earth-type dam continues to provide essential habitat for fish and wildlife while offering a tranquil setting for outdoor enthusiasts. As climate change impacts become more apparent, the careful monitoring and upkeep of dams like Haviland Lake will be crucial in ensuring the resilience of our water resources in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1927 |
Dam Length |
580 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
ELBERT CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
61 |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Drainage Area |
4 |
Nid Storage |
1025 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Animas River Above Tacoma
|
176cfs |
Vallecito Creek Near Bayfield
|
39cfs |
Dolores River Below Rico
|
27cfs |
Florida R Bl Flor Farmers Ditch
|
11cfs |
Animas River At Durango
|
232cfs |
Animas River Below Silverton
|
65cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Haviland Lake
|
||
Haviland Lake Campground
|
||
Chris Park Group Campground
|
||
Lower Hermosa Campground
|
||
Purgatory
|
||
Sig Creek Campground
|
Haviland Lake
Lemon Reservoir