Shadow Mountain Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Shadow Mountain Dike, located in Grand County, Colorado, is a vital federal water resource structure managed by the Bureau of Reclamation.


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Summary

Built in 1945, this dike stands at a structural height of 63 feet and a hydraulic height of 37 feet, containing a storage capacity of 18,369 acre-feet. With a surface area of 1,852 acres, Shadow Mountain Dike plays a crucial role in water management and flood control in the region.

Despite its age, Shadow Mountain Dike is regularly inspected by the Bureau of Reclamation to ensure its integrity and safety. Designated as a high hazard potential structure, it is under state regulatory oversight by the Department of Water Resources. The dike's Emergency Action Plan was last revised in January 2020, showcasing the commitment to preparedness and risk management. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Shadow Mountain Dike serves as a fascinating example of human engineering and stewardship of natural resources in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1945

Surface Area

1852

Hydraulic Height

37

Nid Storage

18369

Structural Height

63

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

63
       
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.