Crystal Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Crystal Reservoir is a man-made lake located in Pitkin County, Colorado.


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Summary

The reservoir was constructed in 1961 on the Crystal River for the purpose of providing water storage for municipal, industrial, and agricultural uses. The reservoir has a capacity of 22,000 acre-feet and is fed by snowpack and surface flows from the surrounding mountains. The water is primarily used for irrigation of farmlands in the Crystal Valley and for the city of Aspen's municipal water supply. Recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and camping are also popular at the reservoir. The Crystal River is a vital source of water for the surrounding communities and is closely monitored to ensure sustainable use.

Reservoir Details

Storage 24hr Change -0.66%
Percent of Normal 102%
Minimum 38.0 acre-ft
1977-03-13
Maximum 20,097.0 acre-ft
2017-05-25
Average 15,490 acre-ft
Nid_Height 323
Hydraulic_Height 225
Primary_Dam_Type Concrete
Drainage_Area 323
Year_Completed 1977
Dam_Height 227
Structural_Height 323
River_Or_Stream GUNNISON RIVER
Foundations Rock
Surface_Area 301
Hazard_Potential High
Outlet_Gates Uncontrolled, Valve, Vertical Lift
Nid_Storage 30726
Dam_Length 635
       
Seasonal Comparison
Storage Levels
Storage Levels
Pool Elevation Levels
Total Release Levels
Inflow Levels

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.