Mcginnis Meadows Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mcginnis Meadows Reservoir in Colorado is a Federal-owned water resource managed by the USDA Forest Service.


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Summary

Completed in 1944, this earth dam stands at 18 feet high and stretches 250 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet. The reservoir is primarily used for recreation purposes, offering visitors a tranquil spot for fishing and boating activities.

Situated in Buford, Garfield County, the reservoir is fed by the East Fork Skinny Fish Creek and is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources. With a maximum discharge of 300 cubic feet per second and an uncontrolled spillway width of 10 feet, the dam presents a significant hazard potential, although its overall risk assessment is moderate. The last inspection in August 2017 revealed no specific condition rating, but the dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures are yet to be fully assessed and implemented.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Mcginnis Meadows Reservoir offers a fascinating case study in dam management and risk assessment. With its remote location and scenic surroundings, the reservoir provides a valuable recreational resource while posing challenges in maintaining safety and compliance with regulatory standards. Further research and monitoring efforts may be needed to ensure the long-term sustainability of this vital water infrastructure in Colorado.

Year Completed

1944

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

E FORK SKINNY FISH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

200

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

20
       
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.