Thurston Lake
Key Takeaway
Thurston Lake is classified as significant hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1928 and is 98 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 16 ft (taller than 23.3% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 4,000 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 4.6K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.7K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 650 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,560 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1928 (98 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1987 |
| NID ID | CO01851 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
FORT LYON CANAL CO.
Private
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Low Hazard 13 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Thurston Lake?
Thurston 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 Thurston Lake?
Thurston Lake is owned by FORT LYON CANAL CO. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Thurston Lake built?
Thurston Lake was completed in 1928, making it 98 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 Thurston Lake?
Thurston Lake serves the following purposes: Recreation, Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Thurston Lake?
Thurston Lake has a dam height of 16 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 Thurston Lake last inspected?
Thurston Lake was last inspected on April 29, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.