Prospect Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Prospect Lake, situated in El Paso County, Colorado Springs, is a significant water resource managed by the local government for recreational and irrigation purposes.


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Summary

This earth dam, completed in 1954, stands at a height of 32 feet and spans 690 feet in length, holding a maximum storage capacity of 615 acre-feet. The lake covers a surface area of 51 acres and is fed by the Fountain Creek-OS stream.

With a spillway width of 150 feet and a maximum discharge of 429 cubic feet per second, Prospect Lake is equipped to handle significant water flow and maintain its structural integrity. Despite being assessed as in fair condition, the dam has a hazard potential deemed significant, prompting inspections every two years to ensure its safety. While the risk assessment categorizes the lake as having a moderate risk level, measures for risk management and emergency preparedness are not explicitly outlined.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Prospect Lake to be a notable site in Colorado, where the dam's history and operational capacity offer valuable insights into water management practices. As a key recreational spot in the region, the lake serves both local residents and visitors while contributing to the irrigation needs of the surrounding area. Its strategic location and design, coupled with periodic inspections and maintenance, underscore the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Year Completed

1954

Dam Length

690

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

FOUNTAIN CREEK-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

51

Hydraulic Height

21

Nid Storage

615

Structural Height

32

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

32
       
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.