Lunney Reservoir Report
Nearby: Theos Reservoir #1 Wyman
Last Updated: December 25, 2025
Lunney, a privately owned irrigation dam located in Rio Blanco, Colorado, serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area.
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Summary
Built in 1904, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 35 feet and spans 120 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet. Situated on the Nine Mile Draw river system, Lunney plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and providing water for agricultural purposes in the region.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Lunney's condition assessment as of August 2016 was rated as fair. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, ongoing inspections and maintenance are essential to ensure the dam's structural integrity and overall safety. The dam is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources (DWR), with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes in place to oversee its operation and maintenance.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Lunney to be an intriguing example of a historic irrigation dam in Colorado. Its location, design, and purpose highlight the importance of maintaining and managing such infrastructure to ensure the sustainable use of water resources for agricultural needs. With its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Lunney serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges and responsibilities associated with managing water resources in a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1904 |
Dam Length |
120 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
NINE MILE DRAW |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Hydraulic Height |
35 |
Drainage Area |
16 |
Nid Storage |
100 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
White River Near Meeker
|
273cfs |
White River Above Coal Creek
|
254cfs |
White River Below North Elk Creek Near Buford
|
234cfs |
White River Below Meeker
|
297cfs |
Piceance Creek At White River
|
16cfs |
Yampa River Below Craig
|
163cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Lunney