Burns Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Deer Trail, Colorado, the Walter L.
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Summary
Burns Detention Dam is a key structure designed by the US Soil Conservation Service to mitigate flood risk along the Middle Bijou Creek. Constructed in 1967, this Earth-type dam stands 20 feet tall and spans 564 feet in length, providing essential flood protection for the surrounding area. With a hydraulic height of 21 feet and a normal storage capacity of 93 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
Owned privately, the Burns Detention Dam is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is considered to pose a moderate risk, emphasizing the importance of ongoing risk management measures. With an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, the dam is designed to handle maximum discharge rates of up to 3200 cubic feet per second, further highlighting its significance in flood risk reduction efforts.
Although the condition assessment of the Walter L. Burns Detention Dam is currently not rated, its strategic location and design make it a crucial asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts. As climate change continues to impact water systems, the maintenance and upkeep of structures like the Burns Dam play a vital role in ensuring the resilience of communities against the threats of flooding and water scarcity.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
564 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
MIDDLE BIJOU CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13 |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Drainage Area |
2 |
Nid Storage |
153 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Burns, Walter L. Det.