Altura, also known as Duck Lake, is a private dam located in Grant, Colorado, within Clear Creek County.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1904, this Earth-type dam serves primarily for irrigation purposes along Duck Creek. With a height of 21 feet and a length of 270 feet, Altura has a storage capacity of 895 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 610 acre-feet across its 47-acre surface area.
Managed by the Colorado Division of Water Resources, Altura is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state agencies to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, the dam is rated in satisfactory condition with a moderate risk assessment. The spillway at Altura is uncontrolled with a width of 17 feet, allowing for a maximum discharge of 124 cubic feet per second.
Altura stands as a testament to early 20th-century water management in Colorado, providing crucial irrigation support while maintaining a safe and reliable water resource for the surrounding area. Its historical significance, combined with its continued operational effectiveness, underscores the importance of responsible dam management in the face of evolving climate challenges.
Year Completed |
1904 |
Dam Length |
270 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
DUCK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
47 |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Drainage Area |
3 |
Nid Storage |
895 |
Structural Height |
24 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
24 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Guanella Pass Campground
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Guanella Pass
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Geneva Park
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Geneva Park Campground
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Burning Bear Campground
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Burning Bear
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