Summary
Built in 1961, this earth dam stands at 17 feet high and stretches 575 feet in length, serving primarily for irrigation purposes. With a storage capacity of 55 acre-feet, Metzger also supports fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond needs in the area. The dam has a low hazard potential and is considered to be in satisfactory condition based on the last inspection in November 2019.
Managed by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, Metzger is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state agency. The dam has a controlled spillway with a width of 10 feet and a maximum discharge capability of 247 cubic feet per second. While it has not undergone any modifications in recent years, the risk assessment for Metzger is moderate, with a DSAC risk rating of 3. Emergency action plans and inundation maps for the dam are yet to be prepared, highlighting areas for improvement in risk management and emergency preparedness.
Overall, Metzger serves as a vital water resource infrastructure in Adams County, Colorado, contributing to the local agriculture and water supply needs. As climate change impacts continue to put pressure on water resources, ensuring the safety and efficiency of dams like Metzger becomes increasingly important for sustainable water management in the region. Collaborative efforts between state agencies, local governments, and stakeholders will be crucial in addressing potential risks and enhancing the resilience of water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Length |
575 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
BIG DRY CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Nid Storage |
55 |
Structural Height |
17 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
17 |
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.
Metzger
Columbine Meadows West
Columbine Meadows East
Columbine West
Stratford Lakes
Brandywine West
Tom Frost Reservoir
Webster Lake
Croke Reservoir
Westminster City Park Pond
McKay Lake