Quaintance Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Quaintance is a privately owned dam located in Jefferson County, Colorado, specifically in the city of Lakewood.


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Summary

Built in 1984, this earth dam serves the primary purpose of recreation, offering a surface area of 13 acres and a maximum storage capacity of 270 acre-feet. With a height of 44 feet and a hydraulic height of 58 feet, Quaintance provides a tranquil setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy.

Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Quaintance poses a high risk (2) due to various factors that may impact its functionality. The dam is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources (DWR), with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement ensuring its safe operation. The dam does not have a spillway, but in the event of an emergency, it is crucial to have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place to mitigate any potential risks.

Located on Bear Creek-TR, Quaintance is a vital infrastructure for the surrounding community, offering recreational opportunities while also facing the challenges associated with managing water resources and climate impacts. As water enthusiasts explore this picturesque area, it is essential to stay informed about the dam's condition and adhere to safety guidelines to ensure the preservation of this valuable resource for future generations.

Year Completed

1984

Dam Length

971

Dam Height

44

River Or Stream

BEAR CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13

Hydraulic Height

58

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

270

Structural Height

62

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

62
       
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.