Rifle Valley Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Garfield County, Colorado, Rifle Valley, also known as Fravert, is a Federal-owned fish and wildlife pond with a primary purpose of enhancing the local ecosystem.


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Summary

Constructed in 1906, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a hydraulic height of 26 feet, providing a storage capacity of 680 acre-feet. The dam spans 240 feet in length and is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, ensuring proper inspection and maintenance to meet state standards.

Despite its age, Rifle Valley dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment. The last inspection conducted in June 1989 deemed the dam in satisfactory condition, although it remains unrated. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and lack of outlet gates contribute to its risk profile, but its location in a remote area with minimal associated structures helps mitigate potential hazards. While the dam does not currently have an Emergency Action Plan in place, its regular inspection schedule and state oversight support its ongoing safe operation for the benefit of local fish and wildlife populations.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Rifle Valley presents an intriguing case study of a historic dam serving a vital ecological function. With its modest size and limited storage capacity, the dam represents a balance between conservation efforts and infrastructure maintenance. As climate change continues to impact water resources, monitoring and managing structures like Rifle Valley will be crucial to ensuring the resilience of ecosystems in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1906

Dam Length

240

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

HUBBARD GULCH-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

26

Nid Storage

680

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

26
       
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.