Hayden Raw Water Ponds Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hayden Raw Water Ponds, located in Routt County, Colorado, serves as a vital water supply source for the city of Hayden.


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Summary

Completed in 1965, this earth dam structure stands at 36 feet high and spans a length of 4900 feet, with a storage capacity of 1013 acre-feet. The ponds are situated along the Yampa River, providing a crucial resource for the community while also offering recreational opportunities and wildlife habitat in the area.

Managed by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, Hayden Raw Water Ponds have a low hazard potential and are rated as being in satisfactory condition. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and has a maximum discharge capacity of 4 cubic feet per second. Despite being regularly inspected and meeting state regulatory standards, the risk assessment for this structure is considered moderate, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued safety and functionality.

With its strategic location near the Yampa River and its significance in providing water supply to the community, Hayden Raw Water Ponds play a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region. As a publicly owned utility structure, the ponds serve as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices and the need for continued investment in infrastructure to safeguard water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

4900

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

YAMPA RIVER-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Hydraulic Height

28

Nid Storage

1013

Structural Height

36

Hazard Potential

Low

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.