Turquoise Lake At Sugarloaf Dam Near Leadville Co Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Turquoise Lake, located near Leadville, Colorado, was created in 1869 to support mining operations in the area.


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Summary

Today, it serves as a hydroelectric power source, with water flowing from the lake into the Sugarloaf Dam and through a power plant. The lake is fed by the snowmelt of the surrounding mountains and is used for recreational activities such as camping, fishing, and boating. The surface flow of the lake is regulated by the Bureau of Reclamation, and its water is also used for agricultural irrigation. The lake is surrounded by scenic trails, and visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Turquoise Lake is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, as it provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities in a beautiful setting.

Reservoir Details

Storage 24hr Change 0.02%
Percent of Normal 94%
Minimum 25,893.57 acre-ft
2003-05-13
Maximum 131,817.0 acre-ft
1983-07-10
Average 91,494 acre-ft
Nid_Height 162
Hydraulic_Height 123
Primary_Dam_Type Earth
Drainage_Area 28
Year_Completed 1968
Dam_Height 125
Structural_Height 162
River_Or_Stream LAKE FORK OF ARKANSAS RIVER
Surface_Area 1788
Hazard_Potential High
Nid_Storage 135525
Dam_Length 2025
       
Seasonal Comparison
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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.