Spring Creek Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Spring Creek Dam, located in Jackson County, Colorado, is a federally owned structure managed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service.


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Summary

Completed in 1978, this earth-type dam serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction and creating a fish and wildlife pond. With a height of 42 feet and a length of 875 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 127 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 16 acres.

Despite its low hazard potential, Spring Creek Dam has been assessed to be in poor condition as of August 2018. Regular inspections are conducted every five years to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. The dam features controlled outlet gates and has a maximum discharge capacity of 3,611 cubic feet per second. The surrounding area has a drainage area of 21.4 square miles, highlighting the importance of the dam in managing water resources in the region.

As a key component in water management and conservation efforts, Spring Creek Dam plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and mitigating flood risks. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find interest in the dam's design and operational details, as well as its significance in supporting fish and wildlife habitats in the area. Ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts are essential to address the dam's poor condition and ensure its continued effectiveness in safeguarding the local environment and communities.

Years Modified

2004 - Hydraulic

Year Completed

1978

Dam Length

875

Dam Height

42

River Or Stream

SPRING CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

21.4

Nid Storage

127

Structural Height

10

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

42
       
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.