Kiowa Crk Wtrshd 3-B-20 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Kiowa Creek Watershed 3-B-20 is a crucial water resource located in Elbert, Colorado, with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.


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Summary

This earth dam, completed in 1960, stands at a height of 26 feet and has a hydraulic height of 29 feet, serving to protect the surrounding area from potential flooding. With a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet and a normal storage of 120 acre-feet, the dam plays a vital role in managing water flow and mitigating flood risks in the region.

Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Kiowa Creek Watershed 3-B-20 has been assessed to be in fair condition, with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam's spillway, with a width of 180 feet, helps to control water levels during peak discharge events, ensuring the safety and stability of the structure. Despite its age, the dam continues to be inspected regularly to maintain its functionality and effectiveness in flood risk reduction.

Located in the Gopher Creek watershed and overseen by the State of Colorado, Kiowa Creek Watershed 3-B-20 is a significant asset in the region's water resource and climate management efforts. As a state-regulated and state-jurisdictional dam, it exemplifies the collaborative efforts between local governments and regulatory agencies to safeguard communities from the impacts of extreme weather events and ensure the sustainability of water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

642

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

GOPHER CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16

Hydraulic Height

29

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

200

Structural Height

31

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

31
       
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.