Kiowa Crk Wtrshd Q-51 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Kiowa Creek Watershed Q-51 is a vital water resource in Elbert, Colorado, managed by the local government with oversight from the Department of Water Resources.
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Summary
This flood risk reduction structure, completed in 1956, is an earth dam with a height of 35 feet and a hydraulic height of 37 feet. It serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction and has a storage capacity of 54 acre-feet.
Located at S23, T.10S, R.64W, 6th PM, the dam spans 208 feet with a spillway width of 60 feet. Despite being classified as low hazard potential and in fair condition as of the last inspection in 2013, it poses a moderate risk due to its age and the need for regular maintenance. The dam's downstream area is noted to have a normal storage capacity of 36 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 2585 cubic feet per second.
Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find the Kiowa Creek Watershed Q-51 a fascinating example of infrastructure designed for flood risk management in Colorado. Its historical significance, design features, and risk assessment make it a noteworthy case study for those interested in the intersection of water management and environmental resilience.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
208 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
KIOWA CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Hydraulic Height |
37 |
Nid Storage |
54 |
Structural Height |
41 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
41 |
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.
Kiowa Crk Wtrshd Q-51