Pitcairne #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Pitcairne #1 is a vital water supply structure located in Delta, Colorado, serving the local community for over half a century.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This earth-type dam stands at a height of 20 feet, providing essential irrigation and water supply to the surrounding area. Completed in 1964, the dam has a storage capacity of 159 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 105 acre-feet and a surface area of 9 acres.

Maintained by the local government and regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, Pitcairne #1 is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency. Despite being classified as low hazard potential, the dam's condition is assessed as fair, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and risk management measures. With a maximum discharge capacity of 387 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in water management for the region, safeguarding against potential risks and ensuring water security for the community.

As a key component of the local water infrastructure, Pitcairne #1 underscores the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. With its strategic location on Doughspoon Creek-TR and its essential role in irrigation and water supply, this dam exemplifies the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climatic conditions. As enthusiasts in water resources and climate issues, understanding the significance of structures like Pitcairne #1 is essential in promoting effective water stewardship and resilience in the face of environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

1600

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

DOUGHSPOON CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

159

Structural Height

23

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate), Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

23
       
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.