Big Sandy Creek Watershed N-21 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Big Sandy Creek Watershed N-21, also known as Higbee, is a local government-owned structure located in Matheson, Colorado.
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Summary
This earth dam, completed in 1959 by USDA NRCS, stands at a height of 26 feet with a hydraulic height of 26 feet and a structural height of 32 feet. It serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Big Sandy Creek-TR, with a storage capacity of 368 acre-feet and a drainage area of 2 square miles.
This low hazard potential dam has a satisfactory condition assessment as of October 2020, with a moderate risk rating. It features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 152 feet and is equipped with Needle outlet gates. The structure has undergone regular inspections with a frequency of 3 years, ensuring its continued functionality and safety for the surrounding community. With state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place, Big Sandy Creek Watershed N-21 plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the area.
Year Completed |
1959 |
Dam Length |
1824 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
BIG SANDY CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
32 |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Drainage Area |
2 |
Nid Storage |
368 |
Structural Height |
32 |
Outlet Gates |
Needle - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
32 |
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 Watershed N-21