The reservoir was constructed in 1963 and is named after a local rancher, John Lemon. The reservoir is fed by the Hermosa Creek, a tributary of the Animas River, and the hydrology of the region is influenced by snowpack from the San Juan Mountains. The surface flow of the reservoir is regulated by a dam, and the water is used for irrigation and municipal purposes. The snowpack also serves as a source of water for the reservoir, and the region's agriculture and recreational activities rely on this water source. Lemon Reservoir is popular for fishing and camping, and also serves as a source of drinking water for the town of Durango.
| Lake Or Reservoir Water Surface Elevation Above Ngvd 1929, Ft 24hr Change | 0.0% |
| Percent of Normal | 100% |
| Minimum |
8,061.51 ft
2018-10-02 |
| Maximum |
8,147.92 ft
2023-06-25 |
| Average | 8,096 ft |
| Dam_Height | 284 |
| Hydraulic_Height | 196 |
| Drainage_Area | 68 |
| Year_Completed | 1962 |
| Nid_Storage | 48658 |
| Structural_Height | 284 |
| River_Or_Stream | FLORIDA RIVER |
| Foundations | Rock |
| Surface_Area | 686 |
| Hazard_Potential | High |
| Dam_Length | 1360 |
| Primary_Dam_Type | Rockfill |
| Nid_Height | 284 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Miller Creek Campground
|
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Miller Creek
|
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Florida
|
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Florida Campground
|
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Transfer Park
|
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Transfer Park Campground
|