Mcphee Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

McPhee Reservoir is a man-made lake located in southwest Colorado, constructed in 1984.


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Summary

It was built to provide water storage for irrigation, municipal, and industrial purposes. The reservoir has a capacity of over 381,000 acre-feet and covers an area of 4,470 acres. It is fed by the Dolores River and the West Fork of the Dolores River, with snowpack being the primary surface flow provider. The reservoir is used for irrigation by local farmers and ranchers, as well as for recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and camping. The hydrology of the reservoir is closely monitored by the Bureau of Reclamation, and water levels are managed to balance the needs of various stakeholders, including the environment.

Reservoir Details

Storage 24hr Change -0.01%
Percent of Normal 76%
Minimum 1,455.0 acre-ft
1984-03-20
Maximum 383,150.0 acre-ft
1999-06-23
Average 246,545 acre-ft
Dam_Height 295
Hydraulic_Height 262
Drainage_Area 809
Year_Completed 1983
Nid_Storage 399200
Structural_Height 295
Foundations Rock
Surface_Area 4918
Hazard_Potential High
River_Or_Stream DELORES RIVER
Dam_Length 1300
Primary_Dam_Type Rockfill
Nid_Height 295
       
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.