Buckhorn Lake #2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Buckhorn Lake #2, also known as Lower Buckhorn, is a privately owned irrigation reservoir located in Montrose, Colorado.


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Summary

Built in 1884, this earth dam structure stands at a height of 30 feet and has a storage capacity of 299 acre-feet. The primary purpose of this reservoir is for irrigation, with additional uses including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond support. The dam is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, with regular inspections ensuring its fair condition and low hazard potential.

Situated along the Uncompahgre River, Buckhorn Lake #2 covers a surface area of 24 acres and has a maximum discharge rate of 385 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, the dam has been well-maintained and continues to serve its intended functions effectively. While it lacks a spillway, the dam is equipped with slide gates for controlled water release. With a risk assessment rating of high (2), the reservoir is closely monitored for any potential hazards and has a designated emergency action plan in place.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate Buckhorn Lake #2 for its historical significance in Colorado's irrigation infrastructure and its contribution to agriculture and water supply in the region. The reservoir's location in the picturesque Montrose County, coupled with its sustainable management practices, makes it a valuable resource for both local communities and the surrounding ecosystem. As climate change impacts water resources, this well-maintained dam serves as a model for responsible water management in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1884

Dam Length

90

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

UNCOMPAHGRE RIVER, TR&SP-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

24

Hydraulic Height

30

Nid Storage

299

Structural Height

30

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate), Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

30
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.