Henderson Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Henderson Lake, located in La Plata County, Colorado, is a captivating water resource managed by the Forest Service with a primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond.


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Summary

The dam, constructed in 1967, stands at a height of 31 feet and has a hydraulic height of 25 feet, providing storage capacity of 126 acre-feet. The lake covers an area of 11 acres and is fed by Pole Creek, offering a serene environment for recreational activities and fire protection in addition to its primary purpose.

The significant hazard potential of Henderson Lake is offset by its controlled spillway and slide gate outlet gates, ensuring safety and proper water management. Despite being classified as 'Not Rated' in condition assessment, the lake's risk assessment is deemed 'Very High (1)', prompting the need for effective risk management measures. With a maximum discharge capacity of 498 cubic feet per second, Henderson Lake remains a vital water resource in the region, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts due to its unique design and ecological significance.

For those interested in exploring the intersection of water resources, climate, and conservation, Henderson Lake offers a compelling case study. From its construction by the Forest Service to its role in supporting fish and wildlife, the lake provides a rich tapestry of ecological and engineering elements to unravel. With its location in the picturesque city of Hermosa and proximity to Pole Creek, Henderson Lake stands as a beacon of sustainable water management practices in Colorado, ripe for further research and appreciation by enthusiasts in the field.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

POLE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

126

Structural Height

33

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

33
       
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.