Sweitzer Lake level limits boat-ramp use
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.