Repairs to the outlet structure of the dam at Haviland Lake have been completed, but it won’t be until after next year’s spring runoff that the popular fishing and paddling spot will start filling up again with water.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife announced in fall 2019 the reservoir, about 18 miles north of Durango off U.S. Highway 550, would be drained so repairs could be made to the dam and outlet structure. Construction started in May.

CPW spokesman Joe Lewandowski said Tuesday the work at Haviland Lake is done, except for the replacement of a damaged trash gate – part of a dam’s spill gates. He said it will be another few weeks before state engineers complete a final inspection.

The plan, Lewandowski said, is to close the gates to hold back water after that final inspection is done.

“Only then will it start to refill, but people won’t see much of a difference in water levels until next spring when the runoff starts,” he said. “So, praying for a big winter.”

The campground at Haviland Lake, which is run by the U.S. Forest Service, has remained open through the repairs. There were temporary closures earlier this year as a result of the novel coronavirus pandemic.

CPW owns the dam, and the 80-acre reservoir is part of Haviland Lake State Wildlife Area. As of July 1, it is required that anyone who enters a state wildlife area have a valid fishing or hunting license.

jromeo@durangoherald.com