Freeman Reservoir Report
Nearby: Millspaugh Martin Cull
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Freeman is a state-regulated dam located in Moffat, Colorado, with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Completed in 1965, this earth dam stands at 26 feet high and spans 485 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a maximum storage capacity of 200 acre-feet. The dam also features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 12 feet, allowing for a maximum discharge of 352 cubic feet per second. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment as of September 2019 was deemed fair.
Situated on the Little Cottonwood Creek, Freeman Dam offers a surface area of 17 acres for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. With a normal storage level of 115 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1 square mile, the dam serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding community. Managed by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, Freeman Dam undergoes regular inspections, with the last assessment conducted in September 2019. Although the dam has a moderate risk assessment score of 3, appropriate risk management measures are in place to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Freeman Dam presents an intriguing case study of a state-owned recreational facility that plays a crucial role in water management in Colorado. With its modest dimensions and moderate risk level, the dam exemplifies the careful balance between providing recreational opportunities and ensuring public safety. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding the maintenance and regulation of structures like Freeman Dam is essential for sustainable water management practices.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
485 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE COTTONWOOD CR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
17 |
Hydraulic Height |
27 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
200 |
Structural Height |
31 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
31 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Freeman Reservoir Campground
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Freeman Reservoir
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Sawmill Creek Campground
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Freeman