Meridian Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Meridian Lake, also known as Long Lake, is a privately owned water resource nestled in Gunnison, Colorado, near the city of Crested Butte.


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Summary

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
       
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.