Sugar Loaf, also known as Turquoise Lake, is a federal-owned dam located in Lake County, Colorado. The primary purpose of this earth dam, completed in 1968 by the Bureau of Reclamation, is irrigation. However, it also serves recreational and water supply purposes, showcasing its multi-faceted importance in the region. With a height of 125 feet and a storage capacity of 135,525 acre-feet, Sugar Loaf plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.

Situated on the Lake Fork of the Arkansas River, Sugar Loaf has a high hazard potential and is regulated by the Bureau of Reclamation. The dam's spillway, with a width of 17 feet, is uncontrolled, and it has a maximum discharge capacity of 2,920 cubic feet per second. The dam's inspection frequency is once per year, with the last inspection conducted in September 2020. Despite the high hazard potential, the risk assessment for Sugar Loaf is moderate, indicating a manageable level of risk associated with the dam.

Overall, Sugar Loaf is a vital infrastructure asset in the region, providing essential irrigation water, recreational opportunities, and water supply reliability. Managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, this dam serves as a key component of water resource management in Colorado, highlighting the importance of sustainable and safe water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.