Palisade #3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Palisade #3, also known as the Upper Reservoir, is a vital water resource located in Mesa County, Colorado.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This local government-owned dam was completed in 1928 with the primary purpose of providing water supply to the surrounding area. With a height of 25 feet and a maximum storage capacity of 35 acre-feet, Palisade #3 plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Palisade #3 has not been rated for its condition since August 2001. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 8 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 432 cubic feet per second. The dam's structure stretches 500 feet in length, covering a surface area of 3 acres and serving a drainage area of 0. Climate enthusiasts and water resource professionals alike will find Palisade #3 to be an intriguing case study in water management and infrastructure development.

Located on Rapid Creek in Palisade, Colorado, Palisade #3 stands as a testament to the region's commitment to water supply management. While the dam's condition assessment remains unrated, its operational status is confirmed with regular inspections and regulatory oversight by the Colorado Division of Water Resources. As climate change continues to impact water resources worldwide, understanding the role of dams like Palisade #3 becomes increasingly crucial for sustainable water management practices.

Year Completed

1928

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

RAPID CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

29

Nid Storage

35

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

29
       
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.