Summary
Designed by Ralph Owens and completed in 1951, this earth dam stands at 58 feet high with a structural height of 60 feet and a length of 192 feet. It has a storage capacity of 1,570 acre-feet and serves the primary purpose of irrigation, with a fair condition assessment as of July 2019.
The dam is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. With a significant hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Matheson also features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 35 feet and slide gates for outlet control. The dam's location within Grand County and its proximity to Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers make it a key structure for water resource management in the region.
Overall, Matheson Dam plays a crucial role in water management and irrigation in the area, serving as a vital resource for the local community. Its design, construction, and regulatory oversight ensure its continued functionality and safety, highlighting the importance of sustainable water infrastructure in the face of evolving climate challenges. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Matheson represents a noteworthy example of effective dam engineering and management practices in action.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
192 |
Dam Height |
58 |
River Or Stream |
TROUBLESOME CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
62 |
Hydraulic Height |
58 |
Drainage Area |
13 |
Nid Storage |
1570 |
Structural Height |
60 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
60 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Matheson