Buffehrs Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Buffehrs, located in Summit County, Colorado, is a privately-owned dam that serves as a crucial water supply source for the area.


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Summary

Built in 1918, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a length of 1300 feet. It has a storage capacity of 152 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 103 acre-feet, making it an essential infrastructure for water management in the region.

With its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating, Buffehrs has been regulated and inspected by the Colorado Department of Water Resources. Despite its last inspection dating back to 1989, this dam continues to play a vital role in water supply and management in the area. Its uncontrolled spillway and maximum discharge capacity of 52 cubic feet per second ensure efficient water flow and control during times of high demand or emergencies.

As a water resource and climate enthusiast, Buffehrs presents an intriguing case study of a historic dam with ongoing relevance in modern water management practices. With its location along Tenmile Creek-OS and close proximity to the city of Frisco, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and regulating vital water infrastructure for sustainable resource management in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing water demands.

Year Completed

1918

Dam Length

1300

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TENMILE CREEK-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

152

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Low

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.