Porter #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Delta, Colorado, Porter #1, also known as Big Davies, is a crucial water resource structure owned by the local government.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This earth dam, completed in 1955, serves primarily for water supply purposes including irrigation. With a dam height of 31 feet and a storage capacity of 276 acre-feet, Porter #1 plays a significant role in managing water resources in the region.

Despite being categorized as low hazard potential with fair condition assessment, Porter #1 poses high risks, prompting the need for regular inspections and risk management measures. The dam, situated on Oak Creek, has a spillway width of 30 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 849 cubic feet per second. The structure, constructed with stone core and rock-soil foundations, has a structural height of 33 feet and a length of 520 feet, providing essential water storage and management capabilities for the area.

In the event of emergencies, the structure lacks an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and updated contact information, underscoring the importance of preparedness and risk assessment. As a vital water supply asset in Colorado, Porter #1 warrants continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure its reliability and safety for both water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

520

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

OAK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Hydraulic Height

26

Nid Storage

276

Structural Height

33

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate), Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

33
       
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.