Wilson Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Wilson, also known as South Slope #8, is a significant earth dam located in El Paso, Colorado, that serves as a crucial water supply source for the city of Pueblo.


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Summary

Completed in 1897, this structure stands at a height of 20 feet and has a storage capacity of 1340 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 669 acre-feet. The dam spans 1650 feet in length and covers a surface area of 83 acres, with a maximum discharge capacity of 3800 cubic feet per second.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, Wilson is inspected biennially to ensure its structural integrity and overall condition. Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam has been assessed as satisfactory and meets moderate risk management standards. In the event of an emergency, an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is in place, with the last revision conducted in December 2020. With its primary purpose being water supply, Wilson plays a vital role in sustaining the surrounding ecosystem and supporting fish and wildlife populations in the area.

Year Completed

1897

Dam Length

1650

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

E FK W BEAVER CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

83

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

1340

Structural Height

25

Outlet Gates

Valve

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

25
       
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.