Adams & Bunker #3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Adams & Bunker #3, also known as Heart #2, is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Weld County, Colorado.


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Summary

Completed in 1906, this earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and has a storage capacity of 520 acre-feet. Situated on Porter Creek, the dam serves the primary purpose of irrigation, with a drainage area of 133 square miles and a maximum discharge of 1100 cubic feet per second.

Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2016 was deemed unsatisfactory, reflecting the need for maintenance and improvements. The spillway, which is uncontrolled and 500 feet wide, plays a crucial role in managing water flow during high water events. The dam's risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to ensure the safety and stability of the structure.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Adams & Bunker #3 serves as a noteworthy example of a historic irrigation dam in Colorado. With its unique design and significant storage capacity, this dam plays a vital role in supporting agricultural activities in the region. As efforts continue to assess and address the dam's condition and potential risks, it serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1906

Dam Length

1580

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

PORTER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

50

Hydraulic Height

16

Drainage Area

133

Nid Storage

520

Structural Height

16

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

16
       
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.