Mason Reservoir in the South Slope Recreation Area of Pikes Peak requires repairs to a leaking pipe and must be drained for assessment and construction. While we are replacing sections of pipe, we will use the opportunity to install valves to assist with future pipe maintenance.
The reservoir, built in 1904, can hold 1,965 acre-feet of water from the South Slope watershed. It is an integral component of our local water system, supplying water to Ruxton and Manitou Springs Hydro Plants and ultimately to Tollefson Water Treatment Plant in Colorado Springs.
Water service for our customers will not be impacted while the reservoir is temporarily out of service, as we can access supplies from other reservoirs in our system.
Impacts to recreational fishing
We are coordinating with Colorado Parks & Wildlife and Pikes Peak America’s Mountain on fish salvage operations and a modified recreation plan for the South Slope Recreation Area (SSRA) to accommodate this necessary work.
Mason Reservoir will be available for fishing when the recreation area opens for the 2025 season, typically in early June. As drawdown occurs, the reservoir will remain available to the public until the water level is such that it can no longer be accessed safely, as determined by Springs Utilities’ staff.
Public access days will be extended to four days for the 2025 season (Thursdays-Sundays). McReynolds Reservoir will remain open to fishing, and designated trail systems will also remain available to the public throughout the season.
Recreation in the SSRA is managed by Pikes Peak America’s Mountain and requires pre-registration through their permit system. For recreation updates, rules and regulations, or to register for a visitor permit to the South Slope Recreation Area, visit coloradosprings.gov/southslope
Project timeline
•Early Summer 2025: Complete South Slope water deliveries to Ruxton Hydro, start Mason Reservoir level drawdown.
•Mid-Summer 2025: Mason Reservoir closes to public for assessment and repairs.
•Late Summer/Fall 2025: Construction plan design completed; construction begins.
•2026 recreation season: Continue construction, with estimated completion in late fall.
•2027 recreation season: Mason Reservoir reopened for fishing.
*The project timeline is subject to change due to weather, scope of repairs and availability of materials.
