Tucker Rearing Ponds No 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Tucker Rearing Ponds No 1, located in South Fork, Colorado, is a federal-owned water resource designed by the USDA Forest Service for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1938, this earth dam structure stands at a height of 17 feet, with a hydraulic height of 25 feet and a structural height of 20 feet. The pond has a storage capacity of 27 acre-feet and is primarily used for fish and wildlife preservation, as well as recreational activities. With a low hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, the dam remains in good condition and is inspected every 10 years to ensure safety.

Situated on Pass Creek in Mineral County, Colorado, Tucker Rearing Ponds No 1 spans a length of 216 feet with a maximum discharge capacity of 157 cubic feet per second. The dam features a controlled spillway and other controlled outlet gates for efficient water management. Despite not being regulated by the state, the Forest Service conducts inspections and operations to maintain the dam's integrity. While the condition assessment is currently not rated, the risk management measures in place reflect a proactive approach towards potential hazards, emphasizing the importance of safety protocols in the management of this water resource.

Overall, Tucker Rearing Ponds No 1 serves as a vital habitat for wildlife and a popular recreational spot for visitors in the region. With its historic significance and environmental importance, this federal-owned dam exemplifies the harmonious balance between water resource management and conservation efforts. As climate change continues to impact water ecosystems, the preservation of structures like Tucker Rearing Ponds No 1 becomes increasingly crucial in ensuring the sustainability of our natural resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

216

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

PASS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

4

Nid Storage

27

Structural Height

20

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
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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.