Lake George Diversion Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake George Diversion, located in Colorado along the Mid Fork South Platte River, was completed in 1952 for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

This federal-owned rockfill dam stands at 18 feet tall and has a storage capacity of 230 acre-feet, serving as a vital water resource for the surrounding area. With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, ensuring its safety and functionality.

The dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 60 feet, can handle a maximum discharge of 2,319 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, Lake George Diversion has not been rated for condition assessment and lacks an Emergency Action Plan. The last inspection in 1999 deemed the dam as not rated, highlighting the need for updated assessments and emergency preparedness measures to mitigate any potential risks associated with its operation.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Lake George Diversion as a key infrastructure supporting irrigation in the region. As a part of the critical water management system, this dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water supply reliability and supporting agricultural activities in Park County, Colorado. With ongoing regulatory oversight and the need for modernization efforts, Lake George Diversion serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water resource management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

216

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

MID FORK SO PLATTE

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

960

Nid Storage

230

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

18
       
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.