Harry Denning Irrigation #3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Harry Denning Irrigation #3, located in Weld County, Colorado, is a vital water resource infrastructure designed by USDA NRCS for private irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1962, this Earth dam stands at 27 feet high with a length of 1680 feet, providing a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the Lost Creek-TR river/stream and is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources.

With a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment as of 2010, Harry Denning Irrigation #3 serves as a crucial component of the local water management system in Keenesburg. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 25 feet, allows for a maximum discharge of 310 cubic feet per second. Although the risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, the dam is inspected every 6 years to ensure its structural integrity and safety for the surrounding community.

Overall, Harry Denning Irrigation #3 plays a significant role in sustaining agricultural activities in the region by providing reliable water storage and distribution for irrigation purposes. As a key piece of infrastructure in the Omaha District, this dam showcases the importance of proper design, maintenance, and regulation in managing water resources effectively amidst changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

1680

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

LOST CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

23

Nid Storage

50

Structural Height

27

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

27
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.