Reeder Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hallenbeck #1 Juniata
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Reeder, also known as Anderson Lake, is a historic irrigation dam located in Mesa, Colorado.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1889, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and spans a length of 750 feet, with a storage capacity of 331 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Reeder is irrigation, with additional uses including fire protection, stock watering, and recreation. Despite its age, the dam has a low hazard potential but is currently rated as unsatisfactory in terms of condition assessment, last inspected in 2005.
Managed by local government authorities and regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, Reeder is situated on Kannah Creek and falls under the jurisdiction of the state for permitting, inspection, and enforcement. With a spillway width of 25 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 185 cubic feet per second, the dam poses a moderate risk (rated 3 out of 5) according to risk assessment criteria. While there have been no recent modifications or updates to the emergency action plan, the dam has necessary outlet gates in place for controlled water release.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Reeder will find a blend of historical significance and contemporary management challenges associated with this vital irrigation structure. The dam's location in the picturesque city of Whitewater offers opportunities for recreation and water supply, but also underscores the importance of consistent maintenance and monitoring to ensure public safety and environmental sustainability. As discussions around water resource management and climate change adaptation continue, the case of Reeder serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for resilient infrastructure and proactive risk assessment strategies in the face of evolving conditions.
Year Completed |
1889 |
Dam Length |
750 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
KANNAH CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Nid Storage |
331 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate), Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Gunnison River Near Grand Junction
|
1020cfs |
Colo River Blw Grd Valley Div Nr Palisade Co
|
1330cfs |
Plateau Creek Near Cameo
|
55cfs |
Colorado River Near Cameo
|
1310cfs |
Gunnison River At Delta
|
548cfs |
Uncompahgre River At Delta
|
250cfs |
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.
Reeder
Corn Lake
Lewis Wash
Carson Lake
Porter Reservoir #4 (Little Davies)
Porter Reservoir #1