Bar-Bee Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bar-Bee Lake, located in Routt County, Colorado, is a privately owned reservoir with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock watering, and serving as a small fish pond.


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Summary

Built in 1974, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet, with a hydraulic height of 27 feet and a structural height of 27 feet. The reservoir has a storage capacity of 74 acre-feet and a surface area of 6 acres, making it an essential water resource for the surrounding area.

Bar-Bee Lake is situated on Beaver Creek and serves multiple purposes, including irrigation and recreation. Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam is inspected every six years to ensure its safety and functionality. The spillway, with a width of 103 feet, is uncontrolled, and the maximum discharge capacity is 2050 cubic feet per second. With its picturesque location and moderate risk assessment, this reservoir is a vital contributor to the local ecosystem and water supply.

Owned by a private entity, Bar-Bee Lake plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. Its strategic location in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, and its proximity to various water sources make it an integral part of the local water system. With its multiple purposes and recreational opportunities, this reservoir is a significant asset for both water enthusiasts and climate advocates who value sustainable water management practices.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

225

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

BEAVER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Hydraulic Height

27

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

74

Structural Height

27

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

27
       
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.