Little Gem is a private irrigation dam located in Weld County, Colorado, along the St.
Wind
Humidity
Vrain Creek. Built in 1902 by TH Engineering, this earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and has a storage capacity of 175 acre-feet. With a surface area of 12 acres, the dam serves the primary purpose of irrigation, providing water for agricultural use in the region.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Little Gem is subject to state regulation and inspection by the Colorado Division of Water Resources. The dam has a spillway width of 30 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 967 cubic feet per second. While its condition assessment is not rated, the risk assessment for the dam is considered moderate. With a history dating back over a century, Little Gem continues to play a vital role in water resource management in the area.
The dam's location in Gilcrest, Colorado, highlights its importance in the local water infrastructure. As a key structure along the St. Vrain Creek, Little Gem contributes to the overall water management system in the region. With its historical significance, structural features, and regulatory oversight, Little Gem stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources in Weld County.
Year Completed |
1902 |
Dam Length |
1350 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
ST VRAIN CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Nid Storage |
175 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
30 |
St. Vrain Creek At Mouth
|
140cfs |
St. Vrain Creek Below Longmont
|
-999999cfs |
Boulder Creek At Mouth
|
44cfs |
Big Thompson River At Loveland
|
24cfs |
Big Thompson River At Mouth
|
59cfs |
South Platte River At Fort Lupton
|
403cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
St. Vrain State Park
|
||
Union Reservoir
|
||
Missile Site Park
|
||
Boulder County Fairground
|