Limon Watershed L-2 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Located in the heart of Colorado's Lincoln County, the Limon Watershed L-2 is a vital flood risk reduction structure managed by the local government.
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Summary
Designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1965, this earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and spans a length of 1833 feet, providing essential protection for the surrounding area. With a maximum storage capacity of 601 acre-feet and a normal storage of 315 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in managing the flow of the Big Sandy Creek-TR and ensuring the safety of nearby residents.
Despite its fair condition assessment, the Limon Watershed L-2 poses a significant hazard potential, requiring regular inspections and maintenance to uphold its structural integrity. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam is closely monitored by the state regulatory agency, DWR, to ensure compliance with safety standards and emergency preparedness protocols. With its uncontrolled spillway and maximum discharge capacity of 5377 cubic feet per second, the Limon Watershed L-2 serves as a key component in the region's water resource management strategy, safeguarding against potential flooding events and protecting downstream communities.
As a cornerstone of flood risk reduction efforts in the area, the Limon Watershed L-2 dam exemplifies the importance of proactive water resource management and infrastructure maintenance. With its strategic location in the Big Sandy Creek-TR watershed and its significant storage capacity, this structure plays a crucial role in mitigating the impact of extreme weather events and safeguarding the local ecosystem. By adhering to state permitting and inspection requirements, the Limon Watershed L-2 continues to fulfill its primary purpose of protecting lives and property, while serving as a model for sustainable water resource management practices in the region.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
1833 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
BIG SANDY CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
52 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
2 |
Nid Storage |
601 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
29 |
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.
Limon Watershed L-2