Elk Lake

BOX SPRING-OS· Moffat, Colorado· Built 1904· Earth· 30 ft tall
Significant Hazard Fire Protection Stock Or Small Fish Pond Private

Key Takeaway

Elk Lake is classified as significant hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1904 and is 122 years old. Its primary use is fire protection. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 30 ft (taller than 65.6% in CO)
Dam Length500 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage442 acre-ft
Normal Storage398 acre-ft
Surface Area22 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Max Discharge89 cfs
Year Completed1904 (122 years old)
NID IDCO01912

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: August 1, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DWR

Ownership

SHINER, KIRK

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Elk Lake?

Elk 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 Elk Lake?

Elk Lake is owned by SHINER, KIRK (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Elk Lake built?

Elk Lake was completed in 1904, making it 122 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 Elk Lake?

Elk Lake serves the following purposes: 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 Elk Lake?

Elk Lake has a dam height of 30 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 Elk Lake last inspected?

Elk Lake was last inspected on August 1, 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.