Big Battlement Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Big Battlement, also known as Battlement #2, is a local government-owned dam located in Cedaredge, Colorado.


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Summary

This earth dam, completed in 1949, serves primarily for water supply purposes, including irrigation. It stands at a height of 23 feet with a hydraulic height of 30 feet and a structural height of 32 feet, containing a maximum storage capacity of 1160 acre-feet and a normal storage of 780 acre-feet.

Situated along the Dirty George Creek, Big Battlement has a surface area of 52 acres and a drainage area of 1 square mile. With a spillway type of uncontrolled and a high hazard potential, this dam has a fair condition assessment as of August 2020. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the dam is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources and undergoes regular state inspection, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality.

Overall, Big Battlement plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region, providing essential water supply for agricultural and municipal needs. Its historical significance, coupled with its design and operational features, make it a noteworthy structure for water resource and climate enthusiasts to study and appreciate in the context of sustainable water management practices.

Year Completed

1949

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

DIRTY GEORGE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

52

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

1160

Structural Height

32

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

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.