Summary
Situated along the Arkansas River, this Earth-type dam stands at 18 feet high and spans 2000 feet in length, providing a serene escape for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty. With a storage capacity of 161 acre-feet and a surface area of 12 acres, Crystal Lake offers a peaceful setting for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking.
Despite its scenic allure, Crystal Lake poses a significant hazard potential due to its unsatisfactory condition assessment, as of the last inspection in October 2019. The spillway, with a width of 4 feet, is uncontrolled, further emphasizing the need for proper maintenance and monitoring to ensure public safety. While the risk assessment deems the lake's risk as moderate, with a rating of 3 on the scale, it underscores the importance of implementing effective risk management measures to address any potential vulnerabilities and mitigate the potential for emergencies.
As a regulated water resource under the jurisdiction of the Colorado Department of Water Resources, Crystal Lake undergoes regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement to uphold safety standards and compliance with state regulations. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk management measures are areas that require attention and improvement to enhance preparedness and response capabilities in case of emergencies. Despite its challenges, Crystal Lake remains a captivating destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking tranquility amidst Colorado's natural landscapes.
Dam Length |
2000 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
ARKANSAS |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Nid Storage |
161 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Timpas Creek At Mouth Near Swink
|
19cfs |
Crooked Arroyo Near Swink
|
2cfs |
Arkansas River At Catlin Dam
|
-999cfs |
Arkansas River At La Junta
|
81cfs |
Catlin Canal At Mile 0.1
|
0cfs |
Apishapa River Near Fowler
|
12cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Crystal Lake
Meredith Reservoir (Content)