Ritschard Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ritschard, also known as Wolford Mountain Reservoir, is a key water resource located in Kremmling, Colorado, along Muddy Creek.


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Summary

Owned by the local government, this dam was designed by Boyle Engineering Corp and completed in 1995 for the primary purpose of irrigation. With a dam height of 122 feet and a storage capacity of 84,639 acre-feet, Ritschard plays a crucial role in water supply and management in the region.

The dam is state-regulated by the Colorado Division of Water Resources, ensuring that it meets safety and operational standards. With a spillway width of 426 feet and a max discharge capacity of 44,432 cubic feet per second, Ritschard is equipped to handle high water flow events. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition is assessed as fair, with regular inspections and emergency action plans in place to mitigate any risks.

Located in Grand County, Colorado, Ritschard reservoir covers a surface area of 1,550 acres and serves as a vital resource for the surrounding communities. As climate change continues to impact water availability and usage patterns, the management and maintenance of structures like Ritschard will be crucial in ensuring sustainable water management practices for the future.

Year Completed

1995

Dam Length

1910

Dam Height

122

River Or Stream

MUDDY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1550

Hydraulic Height

122

Drainage Area

269

Nid Storage

84639

Structural Height

126

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1, Valve - 6

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

126
       
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.