Kiowa Crk Wtrshd 1-G-30 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Kiowa Creek Watershed 1-G-30 is a vital water resource management structure located in Elbert, Colorado.


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Summary

Owned by the local government and regulated by the Department of Water Resources, this dam serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, fire protection, and providing water for stock and small fish ponds. Built in 1957 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and has a storage capacity of 146 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 71 acre-feet.

With a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Kiowa Creek Watershed 1-G-30 plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. The dam has a maximum discharge of 3455 cubic feet per second and is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway that is 100 feet wide. Regular inspections are conducted, with the last assessment taking place in October 2020, ensuring the structure's continued safety and functionality.

Overall, Kiowa Creek Watershed 1-G-30 represents a key component of water resource management in El Paso County, Colorado. Its strategic location, multiple purposes, and effective risk management measures make it an essential asset for the community, providing both flood protection and water storage capabilities. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will appreciate the role that this dam plays in maintaining the health and safety of the local ecosystem.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

487

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

KIOWA CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

26

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

146

Structural Height

28

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

28
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.