Clinton Gulch Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Clinton Gulch is a privately owned earth dam located in Frisco, Colorado, along the pristine Tenmile Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1977 by Woodward Clyde, this dam stands at a height of 170 feet and boasts a storage capacity of 5,915 acre-feet, making it a vital water supply source for the region. The dam also serves recreational purposes, with a surface area of 95 acres ideal for outdoor activities.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment, Clinton Gulch poses a high hazard potential, prompting regular inspections by the Colorado Division of Water Resources. With a very high risk assessment score of 1, emergency action plans are crucial for preparedness in case of any unforeseen events. The dam's controlled spillway and three valve outlet gates ensure efficient water management and safety measures in place.

Clinton Gulch's strategic location in Summit County, Colorado, contributes to its significance in water resource management and climate resilience. With its impressive design and functional features, this dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity in harnessing nature's resources for the benefit of communities and the environment.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

1550

Dam Height

170

River Or Stream

TENMILE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

95

Hydraulic Height

167

Drainage Area

4

Nid Storage

5915

Structural Height

175

Outlet Gates

Valve - 3

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

175
       
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.