W. Cherry Creek Det. #11 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

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Summary

Cherry Creek Detention #11 is a crucial flood risk reduction structure located in Franktown, Douglas County, Colorado. Built in 1961 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 37 feet and has a hydraulic height of 36 feet, with a structural height of 40 feet. With a storage capacity of 418 acre-feet and a drainage area of 6 square miles, the dam plays a vital role in mitigating flood risks along the West Cherry Creek-TR river.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, W. Cherry Creek Detention #11 is rated as having a fair condition assessment as of September 2020. The dam has a spillway width of 400 feet, with a maximum discharge capacity of 6220 cubic feet per second. The structure underwent its last inspection in September 2020 and is subject to regular state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement by the Colorado Department of Water Resources.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the historical significance and engineering details of W. Cherry Creek Detention #11, which continues to serve its primary purpose of flood risk reduction in the region. Its strategic location and design contribute to the overall water management and safety measures in the area, showcasing the importance of effective infrastructure in safeguarding against natural disasters.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

856

Dam Height

37

River Or Stream

WEST CHERRY CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

23

Hydraulic Height

36

Drainage Area

6

Nid Storage

418

Structural Height

40

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

40
       
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.