Franktown Parker Fpe-7 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Franktown Parker Fpe-7, located in Douglas County, Colorado, is a vital water management structure designed by the USDA NRCS for flood risk reduction along the Iron Gulch stream.


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Summary

Built in 1964, this earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet with a hydraulic height of 28 feet and a structural height of 32 feet. It spans a length of 585 feet and has a storage capacity of 178 acre-feet, serving a drainage area of 1 square mile.

Despite its age, Franktown Parker Fpe-7 is well-regulated by the Colorado Division of Water Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. The dam's condition assessment in 2019 rated it as "fair" with a low hazard potential, but a high risk assessment due to its location and the surrounding topography. While it lacks a spillway, the dam's purpose remains focused on flood risk reduction, showcasing its importance in safeguarding the local community and environment against potential water-related disasters.

As a key element in the local water resource infrastructure, Franktown Parker Fpe-7 plays a crucial role in managing water flow along the Iron Gulch and protecting downstream areas from flooding. With a dedicated team of designers and state regulators overseeing its operations, this dam stands as a testament to Colorado's commitment to water resource management and climate resilience.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

585

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

IRON GULCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

25

Hydraulic Height

28

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

178

Structural Height

32

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

32
       
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.