Griggs Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Griggs Dam, located in Kremmling, Colorado, on Dry Creek, is a privately owned structure primarily used for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1948, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a storage capacity of 131 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Griggs Dam is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, ensuring that it is inspected, permitted, and enforced according to state regulations.

Despite its age, Griggs Dam has not been rated for its current condition since its last inspection in 2006. The dam's spillway, measuring 2 feet in width, is uncontrolled, allowing for a maximum discharge of 47 cubic feet per second. The dam also supports recreational activities in addition to its primary function for irrigation, with a surface area of 4 acres and a drainage area of 10 square miles. Griggs Dam serves as a vital water resource infrastructure in Grand County, Colorado, contributing to the local agricultural economy and providing opportunities for outdoor recreation.

With its location in a scenic area and its essential role in water management, Griggs Dam presents an interesting case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts. As a privately owned structure, it is important to monitor and maintain the dam to ensure its continued safety and functionality for both irrigation and recreational purposes. The dam's presence on Dry Creek, in conjunction with its moderate risk assessment, highlights the delicate balance between water management, infrastructure maintenance, and environmental conservation in the region.

Year Completed

1948

Dam Length

240

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

DRY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

10

Nid Storage

131

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.