Canon Wtrsd C-3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Canon Wtrsd C-3, located in Canon City, Colorado, is a crucial piece of infrastructure designed for flood risk reduction along the Sand Creek.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1972 by the Soil Conservation Service, USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 70 feet and has a hydraulic height of 93 feet, with a length of 715 feet. With a storage capacity of 1923 acre-feet, it serves as a vital tool in managing water resources in Fremont County.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Department of Water Resources, Canon Wtrsd C-3 has been assessed as having a high hazard potential, although its condition is deemed satisfactory. The dam's spillway, which is uncontrolled, has a width of 100 feet to manage maximum discharges of up to 10,580 cubic feet per second. Despite its moderate risk rating, the dam plays a pivotal role in protecting downstream communities and infrastructure from potential flooding events.

With its last inspection in 2018 and a designated emergency action plan, Canon Wtrsd C-3 remains a critical part of Colorado's water management infrastructure. The dam's strategic location and design, along with its state-regulated permitting and inspection processes, highlight its importance in safeguarding against flood risks and ensuring the sustainable use of water resources in the region.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

715

Dam Height

70

River Or Stream

SAND CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

62

Hydraulic Height

93

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

1923

Structural Height

70

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

93
       
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.