Summary
This concrete, earth, and gravity dam stands at 511 feet in length and offers a storage capacity of 10,537 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 1,600 acres. While the hazard potential is classified as low, the risk assessment indicates a high level of risk, emphasizing the importance of effective risk management measures.
Operated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Loon Lake serves multiple purposes, including hydroelectric power generation and supporting fish and wildlife in the area. The dam features three slide (sluice gate) outlet gates and is not regulated by the state, with no state permitting or inspection requirements in place. Although the condition assessment is not available, regular inspections every three years are conducted to ensure the safe operation of the facility.
With a congressional district representative of Jared F. Golden, the dam at Loon Lake plays a vital role in the region's water resource management and climate impact mitigation efforts. As an essential part of the local ecosystem and energy infrastructure, this hydroelectric facility stands as a testament to sustainable energy practices and the importance of balancing environmental conservation with renewable energy generation.
Year Completed |
1914 |
Dam Length |
511 |
Dam Height |
16.5 |
River Or Stream |
Loon Stream |
Surface Area |
1600 |
Drainage Area |
60 |
Nid Storage |
10537 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 3 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Loon Lake