Big Tooth Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Big Tooth, also known as South Ruxton Creek, is a historic rockfill dam located in Manitou Springs, Colorado.


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Summary

Built in 1927 by URS Corporation, this local government-owned structure is regulated by the Colorado Division of Water Resources and serves as a crucial water supply source for the region. Standing at a height of 102 feet and with a storage capacity of 810 acre-feet, Big Tooth plays a vital role in managing water resources in El Paso County.

With a spillway width of 30 feet and a maximum discharge of 3655 cubic feet per second, Big Tooth has been classified as having a high hazard potential. Despite this, the dam's condition assessment in 2020 rated it as satisfactory, ensuring its continued safe operation for the community. The risk assessment for Big Tooth indicates a moderate risk level, with adequate risk management measures in place to address any potential concerns.

As a key component of the local water supply infrastructure, Big Tooth represents a blend of historical significance and modern engineering. Its role in regulating South Ruxton Creek and providing essential water storage underscores its importance in supporting the region's water resource management efforts, making it a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.

Year Completed

1927

Dam Length

650

Dam Height

90

River Or Stream

SOUTH RUXTON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

47

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

810

Structural Height

102

Outlet Gates

Valve

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

102
       
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.