Big Sandy Creek Antelope Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Big Sandy Creek Antelope is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in El Paso County, Colorado.
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Summary
Managed by the local government, this earth dam stands at a height of 35 feet and has a hydraulic height of 28 feet. Completed in 1960, the dam has a storage capacity of 2214 acre-feet and serves to protect the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
Situated on Antelope Creek, this structure plays a crucial role in managing water resources and maintaining the safety of the nearby city of Ramah. With a low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Big Sandy Creek Antelope is a reliable asset in the region's water infrastructure. Its uncontrolled spillway and needle outlet gates ensure effective water discharge during times of high flow, further enhancing its flood protection capabilities.
Despite its moderate risk assessment, this dam remains a key component in the flood risk reduction strategy for El Paso County. Regular inspections, conducted every three years, help to ensure the structural integrity of Big Sandy Creek Antelope, providing peace of mind to residents and officials alike. As a critical piece of the local water management system, this dam serves as a testament to the importance of climate resilience and proactive disaster preparedness in water resource management.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
1914 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
ANTELOPE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
159 |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Drainage Area |
15 |
Nid Storage |
2214 |
Structural Height |
38 |
Outlet Gates |
Needle - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
38 |
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.
Big Sandy Creek Antelope