Skeel, also known as Wellshire, is a local government-owned earth dam located in Denver, Colorado, along the South Platte River.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1900 for recreational purposes, this dam stands at a height of 32 feet with a storage capacity of 220 acre-feet. It has undergone structural and hydraulic modifications in 1901, 1975, and 1997 to ensure its integrity and functionality.
With a spillway width of 30 feet and a maximum discharge of 575 cubic feet per second, Skeel poses a high hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of March 2021. The dam is regularly inspected, with the last assessment conducted in early March 2021. Despite its age, Skeel continues to provide valuable irrigation and recreational benefits to the local community, highlighting the importance of ongoing maintenance and risk management measures.
As a significant water resource structure in the area, Skeel plays a crucial role in managing water levels and ensuring the safety of downstream areas. Its moderate risk rating underscores the need for proactive monitoring and emergency preparedness to mitigate potential hazards. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the historical significance and engineering complexity of Skeel, reflecting the ongoing efforts to balance water management with environmental conservation in the region.
Years Modified |
1901 - Structural, 1975 - Structural, 1997 - Hydraulic |
Year Completed |
1900 |
Dam Length |
1150 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH PLATTE RIVER-OS |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
15 |
Hydraulic Height |
32 |
Nid Storage |
220 |
Structural Height |
40 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
40 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Chief Ouray Group Site
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Cherokee Group Site
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Arapahoe Group Site
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Cherry Creek State Park
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Chatfield State Park
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Bear Creek Lake Park
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