This private irrigation structure on Spruce Creek serves multiple purposes, including irrigation and supporting fish and wildlife in the area. With a height of 30 feet and a length of 282 feet, the earth dam has a storage capacity of 35 acre-feet, making it a vital component of the local water supply infrastructure.
Managed by the Colorado Division of Water Resources, the Hook dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition, the dam undergoes regular inspections to mitigate any potential risks. The spillway, with a width of 40 feet, is uncontrolled, allowing excess water to safely pass through during times of heavy rainfall or snowmelt. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the Hook dam remains an essential feature in the water management system of Fremont County, Colorado.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and ecosystems, structures like the Hook dam play a crucial role in maintaining a balance between human needs and environmental sustainability. With its efficient design and historical significance, the Hook dam exemplifies the harmonious coexistence of irrigation, wildlife conservation, and water management in a rapidly changing world.
Year Completed |
1903 |
Dam Length |
282 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
SPRUCE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Drainage Area |
3 |
Nid Storage |
35 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
30 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Lake Creek
|
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Coaldale Campground
|
||
Coaldale
|
||
Hayden Creek
|
||
Vallie Bridge
|
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Hayden Creek Campground
|