Marston Lake - North Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Marston Lake - North Dam, located in Denver, Colorado, is a critical piece of infrastructure that serves as a water supply source in the region.


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Summary

Constructed in 1899, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a length of 2350 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 22,500 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the South Platte River and plays a vital role in regulating water flow and storage for the surrounding area.

With a high hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of September 2020, Marston Lake - North Dam is closely monitored and regulated by the Colorado Division of Water Resources. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 20 feet, ensuring efficient water discharge during peak flow events. Despite its age, the dam continues to meet safety standards and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Marston Lake - North Dam not only for its historical significance but also for its vital role in water management and supply in the area. As a publicly owned utility structure, the dam exemplifies the careful balance between water resource management, infrastructure maintenance, and environmental stewardship, making it a key player in the sustainable development of Colorado's water resources.

Year Completed

1899

Dam Length

2350

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

SOUTH PLATTE RIVER-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

652

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

22500

Structural Height

30

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

30
       
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.