Howard Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Howard is a water supply dam located in Cedaredge, Colorado, specifically on Kiser Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1955 and designed by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet with a hydraulic height of 25 feet. It serves primarily for irrigation and water supply purposes, with a storage capacity of 112 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 72 acre-feet. The dam covers a surface area of 8 acres and has a maximum discharge capability of 415 cubic feet per second.

Managed by the local government, Howard is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, ensuring state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam is classified as high-risk due to its potential impact in case of failure. With a spillway width of 12 feet and outlet gates consisting of slide gates and uncontrolled mechanisms, Howard underwent its last inspection in October 2014, with an inspection frequency of 6 years.

Situated in Delta County, Howard presents a fascinating case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts. Its historical significance, design elements, and risk management measures provide valuable insights into the complexities of maintaining water infrastructure in a changing environment. With its unique location and purpose, Howard stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to balance water supply needs with safety and sustainability in the face of evolving climate challenges.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

294

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

KISER CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

112

Structural Height

25

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate), Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

32
       
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.