W. Cherry Creek Det. #7 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

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Summary

Cherry Creek Det. #7 is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Franktown, Colorado, along the West Cherry Creek. Built in 1959 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 38 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 799 acre-feet. With a drainage area of 19 square miles and a maximum discharge of 6140 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from flooding events.

Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, W. Cherry Creek Det. #7 is currently in fair condition as of the last inspection in September 2020. The dam spans a length of 1210 feet and has a spillway width of 203 feet for uncontrolled water release. With a moderate risk assessment rating and a designated emergency action plan, this structure is well-prepared to handle any potential risks or emergencies. Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the importance of this dam in mitigating flood risks and safeguarding the local community and environment.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

1210

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

WEST CHERRY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

58

Hydraulic Height

38

Drainage Area

19

Nid Storage

799

Structural Height

44

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

44
       
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.