Kem Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Nestled in the scenic countryside of La Plata, Colorado, Kem Lake, also known as Donald Brown Reservoir, is a private water body with a primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond.


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Summary

Managed by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, this earth dam structure stands at 20 feet tall and spans 320 feet in length, completed in 1984 to provide essential water storage for the surrounding area. With a normal storage capacity of 49 acre-feet and a surface area of 8 acres, Kem Lake plays a crucial role in supporting local wildlife and recreational activities.

The reservoir is fed by Elbert Creek and is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, ensuring proper inspection, enforcement, and permitting procedures are in place for its maintenance and operation. Despite being classified with a low hazard potential, Kem Lake is assessed to be in fair condition as of December 2017, with a moderate risk level of 3. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type with a width of 31 feet and is equipped with a slide (sluice gate) outlet gate for water control. Its strategic location just 20 miles away from Durango makes it a valuable asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to explore and appreciate the intersection of nature and infrastructure in the region.

For those passionate about water resources and climate dynamics, Kem Lake offers a captivating blend of ecological significance and engineering ingenuity. From supporting diverse fish and wildlife populations to providing a serene backdrop for recreational pursuits, this privately owned reservoir in Colorado stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of human development and natural ecosystems. With its modest storage capacity, well-maintained structure, and regulated operations, Kem Lake serves as a beacon of sustainable water management practices in the picturesque landscape of La Plata County.

Year Completed

1984

Dam Length

320

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

ELBERT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

6

Nid Storage

90

Structural Height

20

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.