Belmear Lake

DISAPPOINTMENT CREEK-TR· Dolores, Colorado· Built 1912· Earth· 28 ft tall
Significant Hazard Irrigation Fire Protection Stock Or Small Fish Pond Private

Key Takeaway

Belmear Lake is classified as significant hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1912 and is 114 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 28 ft (taller than 61.6% in CO)
Dam Length600 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage647 acre-ft
Normal Storage467 acre-ft
Surface Area30 acres
Drainage Area2 sq mi
Max Discharge660 cfs
Year Completed1912 (114 years old)
NID IDCO02059

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: September 13, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DWR

Ownership

CLIFF BANKSTON,

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Belmear Lake?

Belmear Lake is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Belmear Lake?

Belmear Lake is owned by CLIFF BANKSTON, (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Belmear Lake built?

Belmear Lake was completed in 1912, making it 114 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Belmear Lake?

Belmear Lake serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Belmear Lake?

Belmear Lake has a dam height of 28 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Belmear Lake last inspected?

Belmear Lake was last inspected on September 13, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.