Mckinley Clay Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mckinley Clay, located in Huerfano, Colorado, is a historic earth dam constructed in 1911 by the USDA NRCS for irrigation purposes along Muddy Creek.


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Summary

With a height of 33 feet and a length of 545 feet, the dam has a maximum storage capacity of 201 acre-feet and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, livestock watering, and small fish pond maintenance. Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition was assessed as unsatisfactory during its last inspection in 2014.

Although Mckinley Clay does not have a spillway, it is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement procedures in place. The dam is privately owned and situated within the Sacramento District, with its operations overseen by the Natural Resources Conservation Service. The risk assessment for Mckinley Clay indicates a high risk level, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and management measures to ensure the safety and functionality of this vital water resource infrastructure in Colorado.

As a key feature in the local water management system, Mckinley Clay plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities and maintaining water supply reliability in the region. Its historical significance, combined with its strategic location and multi-purpose functionality, highlights the importance of continued monitoring and maintenance to safeguard against potential risks and ensure sustainable water resource management for future generations of water resource and climate enthusiasts in Colorado.

Year Completed

1911

Dam Length

545

Dam Height

33

River Or Stream

MUDDY CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13

Hydraulic Height

33

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

201

Structural Height

41

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 0

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

41
       
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.