Deep Slough Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Deep Slough, also known as Reservoir #13, is a private irrigation and recreation reservoir located in Cedaredge, Colorado.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Constructed in 1965, this earth dam structure stands at a height of 21 feet and has a storage capacity of 847 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 523 acre-feet. The reservoir covers a surface area of 54 acres and is fed by Ward Creek, making it a vital water resource in the region.

Managed by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, Deep Slough is classified as a high hazard potential dam with a fair condition assessment. It features an uncontrolled spillway, slide gates, and sluice gates as outlet structures. The reservoir serves primarily for irrigation purposes, supporting agriculture in the area. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the dam is subject to regular inspections and enforcement measures to ensure public safety and water resource sustainability.

With its picturesque location in Delta County and proximity to the Ward Creek, Deep Slough offers both recreational opportunities and essential water supply for agricultural activities. As a regulated and permitted structure, it plays a crucial role in water management and climate resilience efforts in the region. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate change will find Deep Slough to be a fascinating example of human-made infrastructure supporting both environmental conservation and community needs.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

660

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

WARD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

54

Hydraulic Height

21

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

847

Structural Height

23

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate), Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

23
       
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.