Parker Basin #3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Parker Basin #3, also known as Big Meadows, is a privately owned irrigation structure located in Mesa County, Colorado.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1899, this earth dam stands at a height of 31 feet and has a storage capacity of 579 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is irrigation, but it also serves for hydroelectric purposes. With a surface area of 40 acres and a maximum discharge of 4122 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Despite being classified with a high hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Parker Basin #3 has undergone multiple modifications over the years to enhance its structural integrity. The dam has been updated for hydraulic, mechanical, and structural improvements in the 1960s and 1989, ensuring its continued operation and safety. With regular inspections and a designated emergency action plan, stakeholders are actively managing risks associated with this vital water resource infrastructure.

The dam's association with Cottonwood Creek and its location in Molina, Colorado, adds to its significance in water management and climate adaptation efforts. As a key element in the local irrigation system, Parker Basin #3 serves as a reminder of our ongoing need to balance water resource utilization with environmental conservation and sustainable development practices.

Years Modified

1960 - Hydraulic, 1960 - Mechanical, 1960 - Structural, 1975 - Structural, 1989 - Hydraulic, 1989 - Mechanical, 1989 - Structural

Year Completed

1899

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

COTTONWOOD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

40

Hydraulic Height

27

Nid Storage

579

Structural Height

36

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 2

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

36
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.