Delta Control Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Delta Control, located in Delta, Colorado, is a vital structure managed by the local government for water supply purposes.


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Summary

This earth dam on the Gunnison River-TR stands at 24 feet high and has a hydraulic height of 26 feet, serving as a crucial resource for the region since its completion in 1961. With a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Delta Control ensures a reliable water storage capacity of 54 acre-feet, with a normal storage capacity of 34 acre-feet, catering to the water needs of the area.

The dam, primarily made of stone core and resting on rock and soil foundations, spans a length of 470 feet and has a spillway width of 12 feet. Despite its age, Delta Control undergoes regular inspections every six years to maintain its operational efficiency and safety standards. With a maximum discharge capacity of 353 cubic feet per second, this structure plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and ensuring water resource management in the region, contributing to the overall climate resilience and sustainability efforts.

As a state-regulated and permitted facility with enforcement and inspection mechanisms in place by the Colorado Department of Water Resources (DWR), Delta Control exemplifies responsible water infrastructure management. With a risk assessment indicating high risk level 2, the dam's management continues to monitor and implement risk management measures to safeguard the surrounding communities and enhance the resilience of the water supply system. Delta Control stands as a testament to the importance of effective water resource management in mitigating climate-related challenges and ensuring sustainable water supply for the future.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

470

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

GUNNISON RIVER-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

26

Nid Storage

54

Structural Height

32

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate), Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

32
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.