Pavel #4 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Pavel #4 is a state-owned dam in Larimer, Colorado, with a primary purpose of water supply.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1969, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 32 feet and has a length of 217 feet. It has a storage capacity of 24 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 15 acre-feet. The dam is located on the MANHATAN-TR stream, 2 miles from ELKHORN, and is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources.

Despite being classified as low hazard potential, an inspection in 2013 found the condition of Pavel #4 to be unsatisfactory. The dam has an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 59 feet, and it poses a moderate risk level according to the risk assessment. The inspection frequency for Pavel #4 is every 6 years, with the last assessment conducted in September 2013. The dam is not owned or funded by any federal agency, and it does not have any associated structures or locks.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management and condition of dams will find Pavel #4 an intriguing case study. With its historical significance and current risk assessment, this state-owned dam serves as a focal point for discussions on water supply infrastructure and regulatory oversight. As climate change impacts water resources, understanding the state of dams like Pavel #4 becomes increasingly crucial for ensuring the safety and reliability of our water supply systems.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

217

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

MANHATAN-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

32

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

24

Structural Height

32

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

32
       
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.