Cole Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cole is a private irrigation dam located in Grand County, Colorado, near the city of Parshall.


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Summary

Constructed in 1905, this earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and has a storage capacity of 63 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes including irrigation, fire protection, stock, and small fish pond.

With a fair condition assessment and low hazard potential, Cole has been inspected regularly, with the last assessment conducted in October 2018. The dam has a moderate risk assessment rating and is regulated by the Colorado Division of Water Resources. The structure has a spillway width of 5 feet and an uncontrolled spillway type.

Overall, Cole's historical significance and vital role in water management make it a noteworthy feature for water resource and climate enthusiasts. Its efficient design and operation contribute to the sustainable use of water resources in the region, highlighting the importance of proper dam maintenance and regulation in ensuring water security for both agricultural and environmental needs.

Years Modified

1988 - Structural

Year Completed

1905

Dam Length

360

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

SOUTH BATTLE CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

27

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

63

Structural Height

27

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

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.