Rim Rock #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rim Rock #1 is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Whitewater, Colorado.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1952, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a storage capacity of 308 acre-feet. Designed primarily for irrigation purposes, it also serves recreational activities in the area. The dam is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity.

With a low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Rim Rock #1 poses minimal risk to its surrounding area. The dam does not feature a spillway and relies on slide gates for water release. In the event of an emergency, the dam has established emergency action procedures, although details on their preparation and revision dates are not currently available. Despite its high risk assessment level, the dam is well-managed and maintained to meet regulatory standards for safety and operation.

Located on Ward Creek, this dam plays a crucial role in water management and agricultural activities in the region. Its presence contributes to the sustainability of irrigation practices and recreation opportunities while adhering to state regulations and inspection requirements. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Rim Rock #1 serves as a notable example of private dam infrastructure in Colorado that balances utilization with safety and environmental considerations.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

255

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

WARD CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

308

Structural Height

19

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate), Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

19
       
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.