CloseSylvan Lake Dam Reconstruction
Project Overview
Sylvan Lake sits in the White River National Forest, ten miles south of Eagle, Colorado. The original 1930s dam lacked modern design controls and could not route a probable maximum precipitation event. Colorado regulators issued a rebuild order, and construction of a replacement structure began in 2018. Sylvan Lake State Park
Reconstruction Solution
The new design combines:
- Zoned earth-fill core flanked by a graded sand filter
- Roller-compacted-concrete (RCC) downstream face and overflow spillway
- Upgraded outlet works for controlled releases
This hybrid configuration raises hydraulic capacity and improves seepage resistance while keeping the alpine setting intact.
CMT Technical Services Contribution
- Laboratory and field tests for earth-fill, aggregate, and RCC mixtures
- On-site observation of RCC placement, temperature control, and lift bonding
- Petrographic review of early-age concrete exposed to sub-zero conditions
- Documentation of seepage paths and sinkholes beneath the former embankment
These steps verified material performance, tracked construction quality, and provided rapid feedback that kept the schedule on track.
Benefits Delivered
The completed dam routes extreme storm flows, shields downstream communities, and restores recreational access to one of Eagle County’s signature alpine lakes. The structure now meets current Colorado Division of Water Resources criteria and adds a resilient spillway sized for future hydrologic change.