Summary
#1 is a privately owned earth dam situated in Arapahoe County, Colorado, near the city of Byers. Completed in 1971, this dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Bijou Creek-TR. With a height of 19 feet and a length of 373 feet, it has a storage capacity of 79 acre-feet and a surface area of 7 acres, catering to a drainage area of 1 square mile. The dam has a low hazard potential and is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of November 2020.
Despite its modest size, Rock Canyon E.C. #1 plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region, as evidenced by its moderate risk assessment rating. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 60 feet, ensures that excess water can be safely discharged when needed. Regular inspections, conducted every three years, help to maintain the dam's structural integrity and ensure its continued effectiveness in flood control. The presence of state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement further underscores the commitment to safeguarding this vital water resource.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate the strategic location and purpose of Rock Canyon E.C. #1 in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. As a key component in the flood risk reduction infrastructure, this dam exemplifies the importance of proactive management and maintenance to ensure the safety and resilience of communities in the face of changing climate patterns. With its low hazard potential, fair condition, and state-regulated oversight, Rock Canyon E.C. #1 stands as a testament to responsible water resource management and climate adaptation efforts in Colorado.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Length |
373 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
BIJOU CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
79 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
26 |
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.
Rock Canyon E.C. #1