Welsh Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Welsh is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Wolcott, Eagle County, Colorado, along Alkali Creek.


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Summary

Constructed in 1915, this Earth type dam stands at a height of 36 feet and has a storage capacity of 216 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 142 acre-feet. The dam has undergone several modifications over the years, with the most recent ones in 2011 focusing on mechanical and structural improvements.

With a spillway width of 80 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 2098 cubic feet per second, Welsh poses a significant hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in satisfactory condition. The dam is regularly inspected every two years, with the last assessment conducted in June 2019. Despite the moderate risk level assigned to it, Welsh meets regulatory guidelines and has emergency action plans in place, ensuring that it is well-prepared to handle any potential emergencies.

As a crucial structure for irrigation purposes in the region, Welsh plays a vital role in managing water resources and supporting agricultural activities. Its strategic location and historical significance make it a valuable asset within the community, highlighting the importance of maintaining and monitoring its condition to ensure the safety and sustainability of water management practices in the area.

Years Modified

1977 - Mechanical, 1977 - Structural, 1987 - Hydraulic, 1987 - Structural, 2011 - Mechanical, 2011 - Structural

Year Completed

1915

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

36

River Or Stream

ALKALI CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

216

Structural Height

36

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1

Hazard Potential

Significant

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.