Meridian Lake, also known as Long Lake, is a privately owned water resource nestled in Gunnison, Colorado, near the city of Crested Butte.
Wind
Humidity
This reservoir serves multiple purposes, including irrigation, recreation, and water supply. Built in 1962, the earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and has a storage capacity of 188 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 123 acre-feet and a surface area of 28 acres.
Managed by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, Meridian Lake undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of 2014, the reservoir poses minimal risk to its surrounding environment. Despite being uncontrolled, the spillway can handle a maximum discharge of 300 cubic feet per second, providing an effective way to manage water levels during periods of high inflow.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate Meridian Lake not only for its functional purpose in irrigation but also for its contribution to recreational activities and water supply in the region. The reservoir's strategic location within the Washington Gulch drainage area further highlights its importance in the local ecosystem, making it a valuable asset in the management of water resources and climate resilience efforts in Colorado.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
40 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
WASHINGTON GULCH-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
28 |
Hydraulic Height |
13 |
Nid Storage |
188 |
Structural Height |
16 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate), Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
16 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Oh-Be-Joyful Campground
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Gothic Campground
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Gothic
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Gothic Campground - Gunnison RD
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Lake Irwin Campground - Gunnison RD
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Lake Irwin
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