Riverside Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Riverside, also known as Sanborn Draw, is a private-owned dam located in Weld County, Colorado.
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Summary
Built in 1908 by designers Baker & Thompson, this Earth-type dam serves primarily for irrigation purposes along the Sanborn Draw river. With a height of 41 feet and a length of 23,400 feet, Riverside has a storage capacity of 91,391 acre-feet, making it a significant water resource for the area.
Despite its age, Riverside remains in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in November 2020. However, it poses a high hazard potential due to its uncontrolled spillway type and high-risk assessment rating. The dam has a moderate risk of failure, prompting the need for regular inspections and potential risk management measures to ensure the safety of downstream communities and infrastructure.
With a drainage area of 89 square miles and a maximum discharge of 3,371 cubic feet per second, Riverside plays a crucial role in water management and irrigation in the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the importance of maintaining structures like Riverside is vital to ensuring the sustainable use and conservation of water resources in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1908 |
Dam Length |
23400 |
Dam Height |
41 |
River Or Stream |
SANBORN DRAW |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3811 |
Hydraulic Height |
41 |
Drainage Area |
89 |
Nid Storage |
91391 |
Structural Height |
41 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
41 |
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.
Riverside