Cudahy #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cudahy #1, also known as George Lewis #3 and Ordway Rockford Mutual, is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Rocky Ford, Colorado.


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Summary

Built in 1917, this earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet and has a storage capacity of 4,435 acre-feet, serving the vital purpose of providing water for irrigation in the region. Situated on Bob Creek-TR, the dam covers a surface area of 600 acres and has a drainage area of 15 square miles, making it a significant water resource in Crowley County.

Despite its historical importance and role in supporting agricultural activities, Cudahy #1 has been assessed as unsatisfactory in condition, with a high risk potential. The dam lacks a spillway and has not been inspected since 2012, raising concerns about its safety and the potential hazards it poses. However, with state regulation, inspection, and enforcement in place, efforts are being made to address these issues and ensure the long-term stability of the structure.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to monitor and advocate for the proper maintenance and management of dams like Cudahy #1 to safeguard against potential risks and ensure the sustainable use of water for irrigation and other purposes. By staying informed and actively engaging in discussions surrounding dam safety and regulatory practices, we can contribute to the preservation and responsible stewardship of our water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1917

Dam Length

12800

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

BOB CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

600

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

15

Nid Storage

4435

Structural Height

24

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

24
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.