Summary
Built in 1926, this earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet and has a storage capacity of 78 acre-feet. With a normal storage level of 48 acre-feet, Dale serves multiple purposes including irrigation, fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management. The dam covers a surface area of 6 acres and has a maximum discharge rate of 530 cubic feet per second.
Despite its fair condition assessment in 2018 and significant hazard potential, Dale continues to be regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the Colorado Division of Water Resources. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway system with a width of 10 feet and is equipped with a single slide gate for outlet control. Its hydraulic height of 22 feet and structural height of 29 feet ensure efficient water management within the surrounding drainage area of 1 square mile. Local congressman Joe Neguse oversees the district where Dale is situated, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the dam's integrity for water resource management in Grand County.
As a key component of water infrastructure in the region, Dale faces a moderate risk level, prompting regular inspections every two years to ensure public safety. With its historical significance and ongoing operational importance, Dale represents a vital link in the network of dams and reservoirs supporting agricultural activities and environmental sustainability in Colorado. As climate change impacts water resources, the maintenance and management of structures like Dale will become increasingly crucial for adapting to evolving hydrological conditions and ensuring water security for future generations.
Year Completed |
1926 |
Dam Length |
470 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH BATTLE CR-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
78 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
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