Owens Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Owens is a private dam located in Hotchkiss, Colorado, along the Leroux Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1910 for irrigation purposes, this earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet and has a length of 538 feet, with a storage capacity of 148 acre-feet. Despite its age, Owens has been well-maintained and is deemed to have a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment.

Managed by the Colorado Division of Water Resources, Owens undergoes regular inspections, with the last one conducted in September 2018. The dam has no spillway but features outlet gates such as slide gates and uncontrolled outlets. The risk assessment for Owens indicates a high risk level, with a DSAC not yet assigned, suggesting potential hazards that may require further risk management measures. Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Owens an intriguing structure with a rich history and a vital role in supporting local irrigation and water supply needs in Delta County, Colorado.

Year Completed

1910

Dam Length

538

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

LEROUX CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14

Hydraulic Height

24

Nid Storage

148

Structural Height

24

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate), Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

24
       
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.