Ball Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ball Lake, located in Rio Blanco, Colorado, is a privately owned reservoir primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Constructed in 1980, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet, with a hydraulic height of 4 feet and a structural height of 33 feet. The dam spans 2000 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 95 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 71 acre-feet. The lake covers a surface area of 7 acres and is sourced by Hammond Creek-OS.

Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Ball Lake is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement by the Colorado Division of Water Resources. The spillway at the lake is uncontrolled, with a width of 53 feet to manage potential discharge. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, with a rating of 3 on the risk scale. Located in the Omaha District, Ball Lake provides a picturesque setting for fishing, wildlife viewing, and other recreational activities in the Buford area.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will be drawn to the unique features of Ball Lake, from its earth dam construction to its modest storage capacity and recreational opportunities. With its location in a scenic part of Colorado and its designated purpose for fish and wildlife preservation, as well as recreation, Ball Lake offers a peaceful retreat for visitors to enjoy nature and engage in outdoor activities. As a privately owned reservoir with state oversight, Ball Lake serves as an example of responsible water management and conservation efforts in the region.

Year Completed

1980

Dam Length

2000

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

HAMMOND CREEK-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

4

Nid Storage

95

Structural Height

33

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

33
       
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.