Martin Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Martin Lake, also known as Lake Oehm, is a recreational reservoir located in Huerfano County, Colorado.


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Summary

Owned by the local government, this dam was completed in 1910 and stands at a height of 24 feet, with a storage capacity of 4,076 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam also serves for irrigation and water supply needs in the area.

Situated along the Cucharas River-OS, Martin Lake covers a surface area of 190 acres and has a maximum discharge capacity of 4,900 cubic feet per second. The dam's spillway, with a width of 270 feet, is uncontrolled, posing a high hazard potential. Despite this, the dam's condition assessment as of March 2020 was deemed satisfactory, with a moderate risk level of 3.

With its scenic surroundings and varied uses, Martin Lake provides not only a popular recreational spot but also plays a crucial role in water management in the region. As climate change impacts water resources, the proper maintenance and monitoring of dams like Martin Lake are essential for sustainable water supply and environmental resilience in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1910

Dam Length

1500

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

CUCHARAS RIVER-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

190

Hydraulic Height

24

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

4076

Structural Height

29

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

29
       
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.