Dickinson Irrigation Reservoir Report
Nearby: Julesburg #1 Jumbo
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Dickinson Irrigation, also known as Rock Ranch, is a private water resource structure located in Sedgwick, Colorado.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1906, this earth dam serves multiple purposes including irrigation, fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond management. The dam has a height of 32 feet and a length of 569 feet, with a storage capacity of 166 acre-feet and a drainage area of 3 square miles.
Despite its historical significance, Dickinson Irrigation faces challenges with an unsatisfactory condition assessment as of December 2011. The dam has a low hazard potential but is classified as having a moderate risk due to its age and condition. The spillway, with a width of 93 feet, is uncontrolled, and the last inspection took place in 2011 with a recommended frequency of every 6 years.
Managed by the private owner, this dam on the South Platte River-TR has state regulation and oversight, with permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. With its rich history and vital role in water management for agriculture and wildlife in the region, Dickinson Irrigation represents a key piece of Colorado's water infrastructure that requires ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued safe operation.
Year Completed |
1906 |
Dam Length |
569 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH PLATTE RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
3 |
Nid Storage |
166 |
Structural Height |
32 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Platte River Near Crook
|
162cfs |
S. Platte R. At Julesburg
|
-999cfs |
South Platte River At Cooper Bridge
|
13cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Dickinson Irrigation