Middle Fork Reservoir Report
Nearby: Davis Gulch West Stewart
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Middle Fork, located in Garfield, Colorado, is a private dam regulated by the state with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.
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Summary
Completed in 1984, this gravity dam stands at a height of 123 feet and has a storage capacity of 390 acre-feet. The dam, with a multi-arch core type and rock foundation, spans 410 feet in length and serves the Middle Fork Parachute Creek, providing critical flood protection and water supply in the region.
Despite its satisfactory condition assessment, Middle Fork poses a high hazard potential and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam's emergency action plan is up to date, but further risk management measures may be necessary to mitigate potential threats. Its uncontrolled spillway and maximum discharge capacity of 800 cubic feet per second highlight the importance of effective monitoring and maintenance to safeguard the surrounding communities and water resources.
Middle Fork's strategic location and vital role in flood control and water supply underscore the significance of its operation and maintenance. As a key asset in the region's water resource infrastructure, the dam serves as a critical line of defense against potential disasters while supporting the needs of local residents and ecosystems. Ongoing vigilance and proactive risk management efforts are essential to ensure the long-term safety and functionality of Middle Fork in the face of evolving climate challenges and water resource dynamics.
Year Completed |
1984 |
Dam Length |
410 |
Dam Height |
123 |
River Or Stream |
MIDDLE FORK PARACHUTE CR |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
5 |
Hydraulic Height |
123 |
Drainage Area |
6 |
Nid Storage |
390 |
Structural Height |
130 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
130 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Piceance Creek Bl Ryan Gulch
|
21cfs |
White River Below Meeker
|
274cfs |
Corral Gulch Near Rangely
|
0cfs |
White River Above Coal Creek
|
228cfs |
Colorado River Near Cameo
|
1310cfs |
White River Near Meeker
|
269cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Middle Fork