Scales #1 (Lower) is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Grand Junction, Colorado, along the KahNah Creek-TR.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1959, this earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and has a hydraulic height of 12 feet, with a length of 360 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 479 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 204 acre-feet and a surface area of 55 acres.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Scales #1 (Lower) is considered to have a high risk level, with a risk assessment rating of 2. The dam has uncontrolled and valve outlet gates, with a spillway width of 15 feet. The last inspection conducted on the dam was in July 2019, with an inspection frequency of every 6 years.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the infrastructure and management of irrigation systems in Colorado may find Scales #1 (Lower) to be a fascinating case study. The dam's role in regulating water flow for agricultural purposes, along with its risk assessment and condition evaluation, provide valuable insights into the challenges and considerations involved in maintaining and operating such critical water resource structures.
Year Completed |
1959 |
Dam Length |
360 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
KAHNAH CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
55 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Nid Storage |
479 |
Structural Height |
12 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled, Valve |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
12 |