George Rist Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

George Rist, also known as Buckingham Lake, is a significant earth dam located in Larimer, Colorado, primarily used for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1973, this dam has a height of 17 feet and a storage capacity of 561 acre-feet, with a surface area of 44 acres. The dam is situated on the Big Thompson River-TR, under the jurisdiction of the Colorado Department of Water Resources.

The dam has a spillway type of uncontrolled with a width of 15 feet and a maximum discharge of 31 cubic feet per second. It has undergone modifications in 2001 for both hydraulic and structural improvements. The hazard potential of George Rist is deemed significant, with a condition assessment reported as satisfactory during the last inspection in July 2019. While the risk assessment is categorized as moderate, there is no Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place as of the latest data update in March 2021.

With its rich history and vital role in local irrigation, George Rist stands as a noteworthy water resource structure in the region. Its design by SMITH GEOTECHNICAL and unknown designers showcases the collaborative effort in ensuring water management and safety. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the intricacies of dams like George Rist provides a deeper appreciation for the crucial role they play in sustaining communities and ecosystems in Colorado.

Years Modified

2001 - Hydraulic, 2001 - Structural

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

1000

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

BIG THOMPSON RIVER-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

44

Hydraulic Height

17

Nid Storage

561

Structural Height

17

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

17
       
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.