Little Gem Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Little Gem is a local government-owned dam located in Cedaredge, Colorado, specifically on Ward Creek-TR.


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Summary

Built in 1948, this earth dam stands at 26 feet tall and spans 525 feet in length, primarily serving the purpose of water supply for irrigation and other needs in the area. With a storage capacity of 248 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 219 acre-feet, Little Gem plays a crucial role in water management within the region.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Little Gem carries a high risk level of 2, indicating the need for proactive risk management measures. The dam features a slide gate and uncontrolled outlet gates, with no spillway present. While last inspected in 2016, with a planned inspection frequency of every 6 years, the dam's emergency action plan status and adherence to guidelines remain unspecified. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, staying informed about the state and management of structures like Little Gem is vital for ensuring the sustainable use of water resources in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1948

Dam Length

525

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

WARD CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

248

Structural Height

26

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate), Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

26
       
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.