Mchatton Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lunney Theos Reservoir #1
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Meeker, Colorado, Mchatton is a private dam that serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond management.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1896, this Earth-type structure stands at a height of 21 feet and stretches 445 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 85 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 64 acre-feet, Mchatton covers a surface area of 7 acres and is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources.
Despite its age, Mchatton boasts a low hazard potential and has been assessed to be in fair condition as of May 2017. The dam, situated on the White River, is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and has a maximum discharge capacity of 123 cubic feet per second. While the risk assessment categorizes Mchatton as moderate, with a DSAC assigned date yet to be determined, the dam remains a vital asset for water resource management in the region.
Overall, Mchatton plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in Rio Blanco County, Colorado. With its historical significance and continued functionality in providing essential services, this dam stands as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1896 |
Dam Length |
445 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
WHITE RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Nid Storage |
85 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
White River Near Meeker
|
269cfs |
White River Above Coal Creek
|
228cfs |
White River Below North Elk Creek Near Buford
|
204cfs |
White River Below Meeker
|
274cfs |
Piceance Creek At White River
|
18cfs |
Piceance Creek Bl Ryan Gulch
|
21cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Mchatton