Fall River Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Fall River is a private dam located in Clear Creek, Colorado, primarily serving the purpose of irrigation.


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Summary

Built in 1974 by the Wright-McLaughlin firm, this earth dam stands at a height of 85 feet and has a storage capacity of 1050 acre-feet. With a spillway width of 140 feet and a maximum discharge of 6400 cubic feet per second, Fall River is a crucial water resource for the surrounding area.

Managed by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, Fall River is subject to state regulation and inspection to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently in fair condition, as assessed in July 2020. With a moderate risk level and a history of meeting regulatory guidelines, Fall River continues to play a significant role in providing water for irrigation, recreation, and water supply in the region.

Located in Idaho Springs and owned by the Fall River Power Company, this dam is a key component of the local water infrastructure. With its stone core and rock and soil foundations, Fall River represents a blend of engineering expertise and natural resources in harnessing the power of water for multiple beneficial uses.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

840

Dam Height

85

River Or Stream

FALL RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

24

Hydraulic Height

85

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

1050

Structural Height

114

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

114
       
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.