Lake Deborah Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Deborah, also known as Ziegler Reservoir, is a private water resource nestled in the picturesque city of Snowmass Village in Pitkin County, Colorado.


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Summary

With a primary purpose of recreation, this Earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and has a hydraulic height of 46 feet, offering a serene escape for fish and wildlife enthusiasts. Completed in 1962, this reservoir spans 16 acres and has a normal storage capacity of 248 acre-feet, making it a vital hub for outdoor activities.

Despite its tranquil appearance, Lake Deborah holds a high hazard potential due to its controlled spillway type and satisfactory condition assessment. The dam underwent modifications in 2011 to enhance its foundation, hydraulic, mechanical, and structural components, ensuring its longevity and safety. Emergency action plans have been prepared, with regular inspections and a risk assessment rating of very high (1) to mitigate any potential risks and ensure the safety of nearby residents and visitors.

With a history of being state-regulated and permitted, Lake Deborah serves as a vital water source for the surrounding community and a haven for recreational activities. Its strategic location along Brush Creek-OS and proximity to federal agencies make it a significant water resource in the region, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts alike to explore its beauty and potential.

Years Modified

2011 - Foundation, 2011 - Hydraulic, 2011 - Mechanical, 2011 - Structural

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

BRUSH CREEK-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16

Hydraulic Height

46

Nid Storage

317

Structural Height

49

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1, Vertical Lift - 1

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

49
       
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.