Sweitzer Lake level limits boat-ramp use

By Staff
Monday, April 12, 2010

An inadequate spillway on Garnet Mesa Dam at Sweitzer Lake State Park has caused the Colorado Division of Water Resources to limit water levels in the lake.

A hydrology study found the existing spillway is inadequate and could pose a threat to the safety of the dam, so the state is limiting water in the lake to a level not to exceed 1-foot below the crest of the spillway. Lowering the lake level a vertical foot has decreased the length of the boat ramp to 17.5 feet and launching is not recommended for vessels over 18 feet long.

A concrete curb at the end of the ramp marks a water depth of 3 feet. Beyond this curb, there is a 4-foot to 5-foot drop off. If boaters back their trailers beyond this curb, it could result in trailer and/or vessel damage.

The storage restriction will remain in effect until a state-registered engineer proposes a solution to increase the capacity of the spillway.

Information: Sweitzer Lake State Park, 970-921-5721.