Fooses Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Fooses, also known as Salida Hydro #1 Forebay, is a public utility located in Poncha Springs, Colorado.


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Summary

This hydroelectric facility on Fooses Creek is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources and has been in operation since 1904. With a dam height of 31 feet and a storage capacity of 25 acre-feet, Fooses serves multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation and recreation.

The dam at Fooses is an earth structure with a length of 218 feet and a spillway width of 15 feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the facility undergoes regular inspections every 6 years to ensure its satisfactory condition. The risk assessment for Fooses indicates a high risk level of 2, prompting the need for effective risk management measures to be put in place.

As a key player in water resource management in Chaffee County, Colorado, Fooses underscores the importance of sustainable water infrastructure for both energy production and recreational activities. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, Fooses remains a vital component of the local water resource landscape, contributing to the resilience and reliability of the region's water supply and hydroelectric capabilities.

Year Completed

1904

Dam Length

218

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

FOOSES CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

31

Drainage Area

10

Nid Storage

25

Structural Height

33

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

33
       
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.