Upper Chinns, also known as Sherwin Lake, is a private dam located in Idaho Springs, Colorado.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1937, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and serves primarily for irrigation purposes. With a storage capacity of 138 acre-feet, it covers a surface area of 7 acres and has a drainage area of 1 square mile.
Managed by the Colorado Division of Water Resources, Upper Chinns has a low hazard potential and is in fair condition as of the last inspection in July 2017. Despite its modest size, the dam plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the region and also offers recreational opportunities for the local community. With a maximum discharge capacity of 882 cubic feet per second and an uncontrolled spillway, Upper Chinns continues to be a vital water resource in the area.
Situated along the Fall River-TR, Upper Chinns serves as a testament to the importance of proper water management and infrastructure maintenance in the face of changing climate conditions. With its moderate risk assessment rating and state-regulated status, this dam highlights the ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and effectiveness of water storage systems in the region. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Upper Chinns offers a fascinating case study in the intersection of human interventions and natural systems.
Year Completed |
1937 |
Dam Length |
420 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
FALL RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
138 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
29 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Robbers Roost
|
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Robbers Roost Campground
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Empire City RV Parking
|
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Midland Group Campground
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Jim Creek Campground
|
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Mizpah
|