Built in 1890, this earth dam stands at 11 feet high and spans 140 feet in length, offering a storage capacity of 119 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of supporting fish and wildlife habitats, this reservoir also serves for recreational activities and water supply needs in the area.
Despite its age, Mitchell #3 remains in fair condition with a low hazard potential. However, a high risk assessment level of 2 indicates the need for ongoing monitoring and potential risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. The dam lacks a spillway, but features a spillway width of 30 feet in case of overflow events. The last inspection in September 2013 revealed a satisfactory state, with inspections conducted every 6 years to assess its overall condition.
Located in the scenic surroundings of Columbine Creek, this historic dam plays a vital role in supporting local ecosystems and recreational pursuits. With its picturesque setting and important water resource functions, Mitchell #3 stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of water management efforts in Colorado and highlights the need for sustainable practices to preserve our natural resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1890 |
Dam Length |
140 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
COLUMBINE CR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13 |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Nid Storage |
119 |
Structural Height |
11 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
11 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
West Lake
|
||
West Lake Campground
|
||
Dowdy Lake Campground
|
||
Dowdy Lake
|
||
Bellaire Lake
|
||
Bellaire Lake Campground
|
Pearl Creek To Junction Of Road West Of Creedmore Lakes In Sw 1/4 Sec 5, T10N, R73E
End Of Four-Wheel Drive Road To Pearl Creek In Se 1/4 Sec 21, T10N, R74W
Source In Se 1/4 Sec 25, T10N, R75W To End Of The Four-Wheel Drive Road East Of The Nf Poudre Campground (Nw 1/4 Of Sec 21, T10N, R74W
Road West Of Creedmore Lakes To Junction Of Intermittent Stream In Sw 1/4, Sec 29, T11N, R72W
Rustic (Upper)
Upper North Fork