Kendrick Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Kendrick is a local government-owned dam located in Jefferson County, Colorado, specifically in the city of Lakewood.


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Summary

Built in 1922, Kendrick serves primarily for irrigation purposes along the Sanderson Gulch-OS river or stream. With a significant hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment as of the last inspection in April 2020, Kendrick's dam type is classified as Earth with a height of 22 feet and a length of 1050 feet.

The dam has a maximum storage capacity of 492 acre-feet and a normal storage of 242 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 39 acres. It features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 60 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 1000 cubic feet per second. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, Kendrick is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement protocols.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Kendrick to be a fascinating structure due to its historical significance, functional importance for irrigation, and the potential risks associated with its operation. The dam's location within a populated area underscores the critical need for proper maintenance and monitoring to ensure the safety of downstream communities and the efficient use of water resources in the region. The data indicates that Kendrick plays a crucial role in water management in the area, highlighting the intricate balance between human infrastructure and natural ecosystems in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1922

Dam Length

1050

Dam Height

5

River Or Stream

SANDERSON GULCH-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

39

Hydraulic Height

5

Nid Storage

492

Structural Height

22

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

22
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.