Mcgowan Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mcgowan, located in Jackson, Colorado, is a privately-owned dam constructed in 1951 for irrigation purposes on the MID FK MEXICAN CREEK.


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Summary

With a height of 14 feet and a length of 250 feet, it provides a storage capacity of 58 acre-feet, with a maximum discharge capacity of 137 cubic feet per second. The dam has a low hazard potential and is rated in fair condition as of the last inspection in July 2017.

While Mcgowan primarily serves irrigation needs, it also supports fire protection, stock watering, and recreational activities. Despite being regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, the dam has not undergone significant modifications in recent years. Its spillway, with a width of 10 feet, is uncontrolled. The dam's risk assessment is moderate, indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued safety and functionality.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Mcgowan represents a vital piece of infrastructure in Colorado's water management system. Its role in supporting agricultural activities and local communities underscores the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams to mitigate risks and ensure sustainable water use in the face of changing environmental conditions. As one of many dams in the region, Mcgowan serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of water resources and the need for responsible stewardship to adapt to evolving challenges and opportunities in the future.

Year Completed

1951

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

MID FK MEXICAN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Hydraulic Height

14

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

58

Structural Height

14

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

14
       
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.