Niver Creek Detention Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Thornton, Colorado, Niver Creek Detention is a crucial infrastructure designed by McCall-Ellingson & Morrill to reduce flood risks along the South Platte River.


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Summary

Completed in 1978, this earth dam stands at a height of 42 feet and spans a length of 2200 feet, with a storage capacity of 948 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, this structure plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding areas from potential inundation during heavy rainfall events.

Maintained and regulated by the Colorado Division of Water Resources, Niver Creek Detention has a high hazard potential due to its location and proximity to residential and commercial areas. Despite the high risk, the dam's condition assessment in 2017 was deemed satisfactory. With a maximum discharge capacity of 17,450 cubic feet per second, the structure boasts uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates to manage excess water flow. The risk assessment for this facility is moderate, indicating the importance of continuous monitoring and maintenance to ensure its effectiveness in flood mitigation.

As a critical piece of water resource infrastructure in Adams County, Colorado, Niver Creek Detention serves as a key component in the region's overall flood control strategy. With its strategic location along the South Platte River, this earth dam not only provides flood protection but also contributes to the sustainable management of water resources in the area. With regular inspections and maintenance, this structure continues to play a vital role in safeguarding the community from potential flooding events, showcasing the importance of proper water resource management and climate resilience measures.

Year Completed

1978

Dam Length

2200

Dam Height

42

River Or Stream

SOUTH PLATTE RIVER-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

34

Hydraulic Height

32

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

948

Structural Height

42

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

42
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.