Fossil Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Fossil Creek, located in Larimer County, Colorado, is a privately owned irrigation dam completed in 1903 with a primary purpose of providing water for agricultural needs.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This Earth-type dam stands at a height of 42 feet and has a hydraulic height of 45 feet, contributing to a storage capacity of 16,000 acre-feet. The dam, situated on the Fossil Creek river, serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area, with a normal storage capacity of 11,100 acre-feet and a maximum discharge capability of 88,100 cubic feet per second.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment as of September 2020, Fossil Creek Dam is classified as having a high hazard potential, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. The dam's spillway, of uncontrolled type, boasts a width of 1400 feet to manage excess flow during times of high water levels. The risk assessment for Fossil Creek Dam is moderate, highlighting the need for ongoing risk management measures to ensure the safety and reliability of this crucial water infrastructure.

In the midst of climate change and increasing strain on water resources, Fossil Creek Dam stands as a historic landmark that continues to play a pivotal role in supporting agricultural activities in the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of structures like Fossil Creek Dam underscores the importance of sustainable water management practices to ensure the resilience and longevity of our water infrastructure in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1903

Dam Length

6650

Dam Height

42

River Or Stream

FOSSIL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

810

Hydraulic Height

45

Drainage Area

28

Nid Storage

16000

Structural Height

63

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

63
       
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.