Summary
Built in 1961, this earth dam stands at a height of 31 feet with a length of 330 feet, creating a storage capacity of 106 acre-feet. Situated on Gardiner Creek, Cottonwood serves the primary purpose of irrigation, supporting agricultural activities in the region.
With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, Cottonwood is regulated and inspected by the Colorado Department of Water Resources. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 8 feet, capable of handling a maximum discharge of 543 cubic feet per second. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, Cottonwood meets regulatory guidelines and operates within acceptable safety standards.
Located in Grand County, Colorado, Cottonwood plays a vital role in managing water resources for irrigation purposes in the area. With its strategic location and reliable infrastructure, this dam continues to support agricultural activities while maintaining a moderate risk status and ensuring public safety.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Length |
330 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
GARDINER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
31 |
Drainage Area |
2 |
Nid Storage |
106 |
Structural Height |
36 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
36 |
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.
Pioneer Park Campground/Day Use
Beaver Creek Unti - Hot Sulphur State Wildlife Area
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Williams Fork Reservoir - SWA
Sawmill Gulch
Morgan Gulch Rec Site Camping
Cottonwood
Williams Fork Reservoir
Willow Creek Reservoir