Built in 1933, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 8 feet with a length of 300 feet, offering a serene surface area of 2 acres for visitors to enjoy. With a maximum storage capacity of 11 acre-feet, the lake provides a crucial habitat for fish and wildlife in the area.
Managed by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, Bills Ranch Lake is subject to regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam is currently rated as being in fair condition, with a moderate risk assessment score of 3. With a controlled spillway width of 21 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 28 cubic feet per second, the lake is equipped to handle potential overflow events and maintain its operational functionality.
With its picturesque setting and importance as a recreation hub in Summit County, Bills Ranch Lake stands as a testament to the delicate balance between water resource management and environmental conservation. As climate change continues to impact water resources across the globe, preserving and safeguarding such reservoirs becomes increasingly vital for sustaining ecosystems and providing recreational opportunities for future generations.
Year Completed |
1933 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
MINERS-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
11 |
Structural Height |
8 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
8 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Peak One Campground
|
||
Peak One
|
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Pine Cove Campground
|
||
Pine Cove
|
||
Heaton Bay Campground
|
||
Heaton Bay
|