Burgess #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Burgess #1 is a privately owned earth dam located in Teller County, Colorado, along Rule Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1965 by the USDA NRCS, this dam stands at a height of 32 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 268 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of recreation, Burgess #1 serves as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts looking to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.

Managed by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, Burgess #1 is regularly inspected and deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in May 2019. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam has a moderate risk rating of 3. In the event of an emergency, the dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, raising concerns about its preparedness for potential disasters.

Located in a scenic area with a surface area of 28 acres, Burgess #1 offers recreational opportunities such as fishing and boating. With its uncontrolled spillway and maximum discharge of 3660 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and enhancing the overall environmental health of the region.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

332

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

RULE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

28

Hydraulic Height

45

Drainage Area

12

Nid Storage

268

Structural Height

45

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

45
       
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.