Jackson Gulch Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Jackson Gulch Reservoir is a man-made lake located in the San Juan National Forest of southwestern Colorado.


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Summary

The reservoir was built in 1960 by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation for the purpose of storing water for irrigation, municipal, and industrial use. The reservoir is fed by snowmelt and surface water runoff from the surrounding mountains, and is also supplemented by the nearby San Juan River. The watershed of the reservoir is approximately 16 square miles, with most of the water coming from the Dolores River. The reservoir is also used for recreational purposes, including fishing, boating, and camping. The area is also known for its winter sports, with nearby ski resorts providing ample snowpack for skiing and snowboarding. The reservoir is an important water source for the surrounding agricultural communities, and supports a variety of crops including hay, alfalfa, and corn.

Reservoir Details

Storage 24hr Change 0.08%
Percent of Normal 122%
Minimum 2.0 acre-ft
1979-08-29
Maximum 35,670.0 acre-ft
1960-04-23
Average 4,337 acre-ft
Dam_Height 180
Hydraulic_Height 160
Drainage_Area 1
Year_Completed 1948
Nid_Storage 9950
Hazard_Potential High
Structural_Height 180
River_Or_Stream WEST MANCOS RIVER OS
Foundations Rock
Surface_Area 217
Dam_Length 1900
Primary_Dam_Type Earth
Nid_Height 180
       
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.