Indian Wash Det. Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Indian Wash Det.


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Summary

is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Grand Junction, Colorado. Owned and regulated by a public utility, this earth dam stands at a height of 65 feet, with a structural height of 80 feet and a length of 2105 feet. Completed in 1965, it serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Indian Wash river, with a storage capacity of 2137 acre-feet and a surface area of 42 acres.

Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, the dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with a hazard potential rated as high and a condition assessment deemed fair as of May 2018. The surrounding area has a moderate risk assessment level, indicating the need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, regular inspections are conducted every three years to ensure its integrity and safety in the face of potential emergencies.

With a history dating back over half a century, Indian Wash Det. continues to play a crucial role in protecting the local community from flooding events. As climate change impacts become more pronounced, structures like these are essential for safeguarding water resources and mitigating the risks posed by extreme weather events. The commitment to regular inspections and maintenance ensures that the dam remains a reliable asset in the region's water resource management and climate adaptation efforts.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

2105

Dam Height

65

River Or Stream

INDIAN WASH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

42

Hydraulic Height

65

Drainage Area

6

Nid Storage

2137

Structural Height

80

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

80
       
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.