Pickle Jar Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in the picturesque town of Black Hawk, Colorado, the Pickle Jar Reservoir is a gravity dam constructed in 2001 by the Applegate Group Inc.


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Summary

The reservoir serves as a vital water supply source for the region, with a storage capacity of 31 acre-feet and a surface area of 1 acre. Situated along the Pickle Gulch, this reservoir plays a crucial role in sustaining the surrounding community and ecosystem.

With a dam height of 43 feet and a spillway width of 66 feet, the Pickle Jar Reservoir boasts a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, the reservoir has undergone regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The surrounding area, including Gilpin County, Colorado, benefits from the reservoir's water storage capabilities and regulated operations, making it an essential component of the local water resource infrastructure.

Managed by a private owner, the Pickle Jar Reservoir exemplifies the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of climate change and increasing water demands. Its role in providing reliable water supply for the region underscores the significance of reservoirs in mitigating water scarcity and ensuring water security for future generations. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience will find Pickle Jar Reservoir to be a captivating example of infrastructure that balances environmental conservation with human needs.

Year Completed

2001

Dam Length

186

Dam Height

43

River Or Stream

PICKLE GULCH

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

42

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

31

Structural Height

54

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

54
       
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.