Millspaugh Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Millspaugh is a privately owned dam located in Moffat County, Colorado, along the South Fork Fortification Creek.


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Summary

Constructed in 1948 by designer Loren D. Morrill, this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet, with a hydraulic height of 26 feet and a structural height of 31 feet. With a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet and a surface area of 7 acres, Millspaugh serves as a vital water resource in the region.

Although categorized as having a low hazard potential, Millspaugh is considered to have a high risk level, with a risk assessment rating of 2. Despite being regulated by the state agency DWR and meeting inspection, permitting, and enforcement requirements, the dam's condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated." This suggests that further evaluation and potential risk management measures may be necessary to ensure the safety and efficacy of this important water infrastructure.

Given its critical role in water resource management in Colorado, Millspaugh presents both opportunities and challenges for water resource and climate enthusiasts. Understanding its design, purpose, and risk profile is essential for ensuring the long-term sustainability and resilience of this important piece of infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions and increasing demands on water resources.

Year Completed

1948

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

S. FORK FORTIFICATION CR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

26

Nid Storage

70

Structural Height

31

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

31
       
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.