Miller Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Miller Creek in Routt County, Colorado, is a privately owned dam regulated by the state's Department of Water Resources.


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Summary

The earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and spans 325 feet, providing a storage capacity of 105 acre-feet. With a spillway type classified as uncontrolled, the dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. Even though the last inspection took place in July 1997, the dam is deemed to be in good condition and not currently rated.

Located in the scenic city of Hamilton, Miller Creek serves as a vital resource for water storage and management in the area. While the dam's primary purpose is not specified, its normal storage capacity of 85 acre-feet supports a surface area of 15 acres. With a maximum discharge of 11 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and mitigating potential downstream risks. Despite the lack of recent inspections, Miller Creek's operational status and structural integrity remain intact, ensuring continued water resource sustainability for the community.

As a key feature in the Omaha District of Colorado's Congressional District 03, Miller Creek represents a significant component of the region's water infrastructure. While the dam's specifics and associated structures are minimal, its presence and functionality contribute to the overall water management system. With state regulations in place for permitting, inspection, and enforcement, Miller Creek exemplifies the importance of private ownership in maintaining water resources and climate resilience in the face of potential hazards and risks.

Dam Length

325

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

MILLER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Hydraulic Height

10

Nid Storage

105

Structural Height

10

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

10
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.