Bison Park Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bison Park, also known as Victor or Big Bison, is a water resource marvel nestled in Teller County, Colorado.


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Summary

Built in 1902, this Earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet, with a length of 900 feet and a storage capacity of 1,548 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Bison Park is water supply, serving as a vital resource for both local government and wildlife in the area.

Located along Bison Creek in the city of Pueblo, Bison Park offers a serene retreat for water and climate enthusiasts. With a surface area of 80 acres and a drainage area of 10 square miles, this dam not only provides water supply but also supports fish and wildlife habitats, recreational activities, and flood control measures. Despite its age, Bison Park maintains a fair condition assessment and is inspected biennially to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency.

Managed by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, Bison Park has been deemed to have a significant hazard potential due to its uncontrolled spillway and moderate risk rating. With its picturesque surroundings and crucial role in water management, Bison Park stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns and growing environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1902

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

BISON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

80

Hydraulic Height

27

Drainage Area

10

Nid Storage

1548

Structural Height

27

Hazard Potential

Significant

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.