Cherry Creek Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cherry Creek Dam, also known as Cherry Creek Lake, is a vital structure in Arapahoe County, Colorado, designed by the US Army Corps of Engineers to primarily reduce flood risks in the region.


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Summary

Completed in 1953, the dam stands at a hydraulic height of 140 feet and a structural height of 189 feet, with a storage capacity of 134,470 acre-feet. The dam plays a crucial role in managing the Cherry Creek's flow, protecting downstream communities from catastrophic flooding events.

Despite the dam's reliability, there are still potential risks associated with overtopping during extreme flood events, which could lead to devastating consequences for the highly urbanized areas downstream. Recognizing these risks, the US Army Corps of Engineers has implemented various risk management measures, including ongoing monitoring, maintenance, and collaboration with state and local agencies to enhance preparedness and public awareness. Additionally, a Dam Safety Modification Study conducted in 2019 resulted in non-structural improvements to reduce the probability of overtopping and enhance emergency response capabilities.

As a responsible dam owner, the US Army Corps of Engineers continues to prioritize the safety and protection of communities near Cherry Creek Dam. By proactively managing risks and enhancing communication and preparedness efforts, the dam serves as a critical infrastructure in mitigating flood risks and safeguarding lives and property in the region.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

14300

River Or Stream

CHERRY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

852

Hydraulic Height

140

Drainage Area

385

Nid Storage

134470

Structural Height

189

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 0, Vertical Lift - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

189
       
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.