Big Sandy Creek Watershed S-22 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Big Sandy Creek Watershed S-22, also known as Morris, is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Matheson, Elbert County, Colorado.
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Summary
Owned by the local government and regulated by the Department of Water Resources, this earth dam stands at a height of 31 feet and was completed in 1959 by the USDA NRCS. With a storage capacity of 303 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 5640 cubic feet per second, this structure plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, and it has a spillway width of 202 feet for uncontrolled releases during periods of high water flow. Despite its age, the structure is in satisfactory condition and poses a low hazard potential according to the latest assessment. The dam undergoes regular inspections, with the last one conducted in October 2020, to ensure its continued safety and functionality. With its moderate risk assessment rating and the support of the local government and USDA NRCS, Big Sandy Creek Watershed S-22 remains a key asset in the management of water resources and climate resilience in the region.
Overall, Big Sandy Creek Watershed S-22 serves as a crucial piece of infrastructure in the Big Sandy Creek watershed, providing flood protection and water management benefits to the local community. With its strategic location and effective design, this earth dam continues to play a vital role in safeguarding the area against potential flooding events and ensuring the sustainable use of water resources. As climate change impacts become more pronounced, structures like S-22 will be essential in adapting to and mitigating the risks associated with changing weather patterns and increasing water variability in the region.
Year Completed |
1959 |
Dam Length |
831 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
BIG SANDY CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
24 |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Drainage Area |
2 |
Nid Storage |
303 |
Structural Height |
36 |
Outlet Gates |
Needle - 0 |
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.
Big Sandy Creek Watershed S-22