Lower Urad Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Lower Urad, located in Clear Creek, Colorado, is a vital water supply dam completed in 1965.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Standing at a height of 90 feet, with a hydraulic height of 85 feet, and a length of 700 feet, this Earth-type dam plays a pivotal role in providing water storage and management for the region. With a normal storage capacity of 252 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 11,000 cubic feet per second, Lower Urad ensures a reliable water supply for the surrounding area.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Colorado Division of Water Resources (DWR), Lower Urad is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway that is 118 feet wide. The dam's condition is assessed as satisfactory, with a significant hazard potential. While the risk assessment deems the dam's risk as moderate, it is crucial to note that inspection and maintenance are conducted regularly to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. Lower Urad's strategic location on Woods Creek showcases its importance in mitigating water resource challenges and climate impacts in the region.

With Congressman Joe Neguse representing the area, Lower Urad serves as a critical infrastructure for water management in the Sacramento District. Its significant storage capacity of 432 acre-feet and its proximity to Empire, Colorado, make it a key component in ensuring water security for local communities. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the role of dams like Lower Urad becomes increasingly important in safeguarding against droughts, floods, and other water-related challenges in the region.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

700

Dam Height

80

River Or Stream

WOODS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

85

Drainage Area

10

Nid Storage

432

Structural Height

90

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

90
       
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.