Summary
Built in 1939 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet and serves the primary purpose of irrigation, with a storage capacity of 570 acre-feet and a drainage area of 48 square miles. Despite being rated as having low hazard potential, Brett Gray faces a high risk level due to its age and lack of recent condition assessments.
Operated and regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, Brett Gray has state jurisdiction and is subject to permitting, inspection, and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. The dam does not have a spillway and is not equipped with outlet gates or locks, highlighting its simple structure and design. Although last inspected in 1990, the dam's risk management measures and emergency action plan status are unknown, raising concerns about its ability to address potential hazards and emergencies effectively.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Brett Gray presents an intriguing case study of an aging irrigation dam in rural Colorado. The dam's historical significance, engineering design, and risk assessment provide valuable insights into the challenges and considerations involved in managing and maintaining water infrastructure in a changing climate. As efforts to address aging infrastructure and improve dam safety continue, Brett Gray serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive maintenance and monitoring to ensure the reliability and resilience of our water resources.
Year Completed |
1939 |
Dam Length |
1150 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
STEELS FORK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
51 |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Drainage Area |
48 |
Nid Storage |
570 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Huerfano River Near Boone
|
0cfs |
Arkansas River Near Nepesta
|
296cfs |
Fountain Creek Near Fountain
|
250cfs |
Jimmy Camp Creek At Fountain
|
1cfs |
Fountain Creek Near Pinon
|
118cfs |
Arkansas River At Catlin Dam
|
-999cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Brett Gray