Kiowa Crk Wtrshd H-21 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Kiowa Creek Watershed H-21, located in Elbert County, Colorado, is a key flood risk reduction structure managed by the local government.
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Summary
Built in 1956 by the U.S. Soil Conservation Service, USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet, with a hydraulic height of 24 feet and a structural height of 28 feet. With a capacity to store 94 acre-feet of water, it serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and flood risk reduction.
This dam on Kiowa Creek is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. Classified as having a low hazard potential and in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in October 2020, the dam has a moderate risk assessment rating. The spillway, which is uncontrolled, has a width of 120 feet and the dam has an uncontrolled outlet gate. The overall risk management measures and emergency action plans for the dam are yet to be fully detailed.
With Doug Lamborn as the Congressional Representative for this area, the Kiowa Creek Watershed H-21 plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the region. As a part of the Albuquerque District, this dam represents a collaborative effort between local and federal agencies to protect the surrounding communities and environment. The data and oversight provided by the state regulatory agency, DWR, ensure the safety and effectiveness of this vital water infrastructure for Elbert County.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
901 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
KIOWA CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Nid Storage |
94 |
Structural Height |
28 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
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 H-21