South Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

South Lake, also known as Quail Lake, is a picturesque reservoir located in Colorado Springs, Colorado.


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Summary

Managed by the local government, this earth dam structure was completed in 1973 and serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, irrigation, and recreation. With a maximum storage capacity of 583 acre-feet and a normal storage of 319 acre-feet, South Lake covers a surface area of 33 acres and is fed by the Fountain Creek-TR river.

With a dam height of 60 feet and a hydraulic height of 52 feet, South Lake has a spillway width of 29 feet and an uncontrolled spillway type. The dam is classified as having a high hazard potential but is currently in satisfactory condition according to the last inspection in March 2020. The reservoir offers opportunities for outdoor activities and is a popular spot for recreation in the area. Despite its moderate risk assessment, South Lake remains a vital water resource in El Paso County, Colorado, providing essential services to the community while also being a scenic destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

750

Dam Height

60

River Or Stream

FOUNTAIN CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

33

Hydraulic Height

52

Nid Storage

583

Structural Height

65

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

65
       
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.