Coal Bank Watershed Cb-1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Coal Bank Watershed Cb-1 is a federal-owned structure located in Weld County, Colorado, specifically in the city of Eaton.


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Summary

This watershed is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction. Completed in 1961, the Earth-type dam stands at 51 feet high with a hydraulic height of 51 feet and a structural height of 64 feet, spanning a length of 2544 feet. It has a maximum storage capacity of 2754 acre-feet and covers a drainage area of 27 square miles, with a spillway width of 302 feet for uncontrolled discharge.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and being in a satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in 2016, the Coal Bank Watershed Cb-1 still poses a moderate risk. It is subject to regular inspections every three years to ensure its safety and effectiveness in flood prevention. The structure, designed by the USDA NRCS, plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area and protecting the surrounding communities from potential flooding events. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding and monitoring the operations and maintenance of structures like the Coal Bank Watershed Cb-1 is essential for sustainable water management practices and mitigation of climate-related risks.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

2544

Dam Height

51

River Or Stream

COAL BANK DRAW

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

139

Hydraulic Height

51

Drainage Area

27

Nid Storage

2754

Structural Height

64

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

64
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.