Leo Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Leo Lake, located in El Paso County, Colorado, is a Federal-owned reservoir primarily used for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1930, this Earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a storage capacity of 37 acre-feet, with a normal storage of 18 acre-feet. The dam spans 240 feet in length and covers a surface area of 4 acres, serving as a vital resource for water supply in the region.

Managed by the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Leo Lake has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in October 2015. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the reservoir is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and a maximum discharge capacity of 2588 cubic feet per second. Despite its modest size, the lake offers recreational opportunities in addition to its essential role in providing water for irrigation in the surrounding area.

The dam's location on the SOUTH BEAVER CREEK-TR river and its proximity to Colorado Springs make Leo Lake a significant water resource in the region. With state regulation and permitting in place, along with regular inspections and enforcement measures, the reservoir exemplifies responsible water management practices while also offering a picturesque setting for outdoor activities and a reminder of the enduring importance of water resources in a changing climate.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

240

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

SOUTH BEAVER CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

11

Nid Storage

37

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

25
       
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.