Holy Terror Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Holy Terror is a privately owned Earth dam located in Hotchkiss, Colorado, along the Terror Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1893 for irrigation purposes, this historic structure stands at 17 feet tall and stretches 750 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 218 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam is in satisfactory condition with a low hazard potential, as assessed in 2016.

The dam, constructed with stone core and rock-soil foundations, features a slide gate and uncontrolled outlet gates. With a maximum discharge of 1000 cubic feet per second, Holy Terror poses a high risk (rated 2 out of 5) due to its age and potential vulnerability to climate-related events. Although it has not undergone recent modifications or emergency action plan updates, regular inspections are conducted every six years to ensure its continued safety and functionality.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the intricate details of Holy Terror, it serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring aging infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions. With its rich history and vital role in supporting local irrigation needs, this dam stands as a testament to the enduring connection between water resources, infrastructure, and the natural world.

Year Completed

1893

Dam Length

750

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

TERROR CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16

Hydraulic Height

17

Nid Storage

218

Structural Height

17

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate), Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

17
       
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.