Summary
Built in 1912 for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and has a length of 1900 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 931 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 1470 cubic feet per second, Red Top serves as a crucial water resource for the area.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Red Top faces a high risk due to its age and the potential impact of climate change on water resources. The dam has been regularly inspected by the Colorado Division of Water Resources, ensuring its structural integrity and compliance with state regulations. The last inspection took place in March 2016, with a frequency of every 6 years.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts monitor the impact of changing environmental conditions on dams like Red Top, it is crucial to continue assessing and managing the risk associated with these vital structures. By staying vigilant and proactive in maintaining and improving dam safety measures, stakeholders can ensure the continued reliability and sustainability of water resources in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1912 |
Dam Length |
1900 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
MUSTANG CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
178 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
3 |
Nid Storage |
1821 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Red Top