Wilson Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Wilson is a private earth dam located on Sheep Creek in Huerfano, Colorado, with a primary purpose of irrigation.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 35 feet and has a storage capacity of 198 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 150 acre-feet. Although it was last inspected in 2012 and deemed to be in fair condition with a low hazard potential, its risk assessment is classified as high (2), indicating the need for continued monitoring and maintenance.

Situated in the Sacramento District, Wilson does not have a spillway and is not associated with any federal agencies. The dam serves various purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and fish and wildlife habitat, in addition to irrigation. With a drainage area of 3 square miles and a surface area of 7 acres, Wilson plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region, supporting both agricultural and environmental needs along Sheep Creek.

While Wilson's condition assessment may have been fair in 2012, ongoing risk management measures are essential to ensure the safety and reliability of the dam for the surrounding community. With its location in a high-risk area and its importance for various water-related activities, maintaining a proactive approach to monitoring and maintenance will be key in safeguarding the dam's integrity and maximizing its benefits for the local ecosystem and economy.

Dam Length

215

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

SHEEP CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

35

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

198

Structural Height

35

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

35
       
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.