Tucker Lake - South Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Tucker Lake - South Dam, located in Arvada, Colorado, is a privately owned earth dam built in 1899 for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Managed by the USDA NRCS, this dam stands at a height of 29 feet and has a storage capacity of 1,250 acre-feet. With a surface area of 56 acres and a spillway width of 20 feet, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating the flow of Ralston Creek-OS.

Despite being in satisfactory condition, Tucker Lake - South Dam has a high hazard potential, prompting regular inspections by the state regulatory agency. With a moderate risk assessment rating, emergency action plans are in place to ensure the safety of downstream communities in the event of a breach. As a significant water resource in Jefferson County, this dam serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of water management in Colorado and the importance of maintaining infrastructure in the face of climate challenges.

Year Completed

1899

Dam Length

1737

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

RALSTON CREEK-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

56

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

1250

Structural Height

29

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

29
       
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.