Buck Pasture, located in Dolores, Colorado, is a privately owned dam primarily used for fire protection, stock watering, and as a small fish pond.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1966, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and spans 600 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 115 acre-feet, it serves as a crucial water resource for the area, supporting irrigation and providing a surface area of 8 acres.
Managed by the Colorado Department of Water Resources (DWR), Buck Pasture is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition, the dam is equipped with a slide gate for controlled water release in case of emergencies. The last inspection in October 2015 deemed the structure to be in good condition, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3.
Situated along the Beaver Creek-TR stream, Buck Pasture plays a vital role in water management and climate resilience efforts in the region. Its strategic location in the Slick Rock city area, 63 miles from the Albuquerque District, highlights its importance for maintaining water supply, supporting agriculture, and mitigating potential risks associated with water scarcity and extreme weather events. As a key component of the local water infrastructure, Buck Pasture stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate adaptation in Colorado.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
BEAVER CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Nid Storage |
115 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
30 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
West Dolores
|
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West Dolores Campground
|
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Mavreeso
|
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Mavreeso Campground
|
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Dunton River Camp
|
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Lone Cone Cabin
|