Kiowa Crk Wtrshd 3-B-50 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Kiowa Creek Watershed 3-B-50 is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Elbert County, Colorado.
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Summary
Owned by the local government and designed by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet and has a length of 426 feet. Completed in 1956, it serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along Gopher Creek, with a normal storage capacity of 42 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 2600 cubic feet per second.
With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of November 2011, Kiowa Creek Watershed 3-B-50 has a moderate risk assessment score of 3. This structure plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area, providing protection against potential flooding events. Despite its age, it continues to fulfill its intended purpose effectively, showcasing the importance of ongoing inspection and maintenance to ensure its continued functionality and safety for the surrounding community.
Located in a picturesque setting in Kiowa, Colorado, this dam represents a collaboration between local and federal agencies to safeguard the region against flooding. With its uncontrolled spillway and strategic positioning on Gopher Creek, Kiowa Creek Watershed 3-B-50 stands as a testament to the importance of proactive water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
426 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
GOPHER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Nid Storage |
69 |
Structural Height |
28 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
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 3-B-50