Twombley Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Twombley is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Weld County, Colorado, along the South Platte River.


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Summary

Built in 1931, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 13 feet and spans a length of 630 feet, with a storage capacity of 76 acre-feet. While the dam has a low hazard potential, it is considered to have a high risk level, emphasizing the need for proper risk management measures.

Despite being last inspected in 1984, with a frequency of every 6 years, Twombley's condition assessment is currently marked as "Not Rated." This raises concerns about the structural integrity of the dam and highlights the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. Furthermore, with a risk assessment indicating a high risk level, there is a pressing need for updated emergency action plans and risk management strategies to ensure the safety and stability of the dam and surrounding areas.

With its historical importance in irrigation and water resource management, Twombley serves as a vital infrastructure for agricultural activities in the region. However, in order to mitigate potential risks and ensure the long-term functionality of the dam, there is a need for increased attention and investment in its maintenance, monitoring, and emergency preparedness. As climate change continues to impact water resources, it is crucial to prioritize the safety and sustainability of structures like Twombley to safeguard both the environment and the communities that rely on them.

Year Completed

1931

Dam Length

630

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

SOUTH PLATTE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Hydraulic Height

5

Nid Storage

76

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

13
       
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.