Summary
Completed in 1951, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 12 feet and stretches 1068 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 160 acre-feet, it also serves the dual purpose of creating a fish and wildlife pond in addition to flood risk reduction.
Despite its relatively low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Tom Frost has not been rated for its current condition as of the last inspection conducted in 1998. The dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway, measuring 133 feet in width, to manage excess water flow during periods of high discharge. While the structure has not been modified in recent years, it is subject to regular state inspection, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its continued functionality and safety in mitigating flood risks in the area.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Tom Frost to be an intriguing example of a locally owned dam with historical significance in the region. Its purposeful design by the USDA NRCS, ongoing state regulation, and unique combination of flood risk reduction and ecological benefits make it a noteworthy feature in the landscape of water management and conservation efforts in Colorado.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
1068 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
BIG DRY CREEK-OS |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Nid Storage |
160 |
Structural Height |
12 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
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.
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