John Townsend is a Federal-owned dam located in Fountain, Colorado, along the Spring Branch Pond.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1885, this Earth-type dam stands at 46 feet high with a hydraulic height of 60 feet and a length of 470 feet. Its primary purpose is for recreation, with additional functions for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond. The dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment.
Managed by the US Army, John Townsend Dam has a normal storage capacity of 220 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 303 acre-feet. It is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources and undergoes regular state inspections, with the last one conducted in August 2016. While its condition assessment is not available, the dam meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements, ensuring the safety of its surrounding community.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, John Townsend Dam serves as an intriguing site for understanding the intersection of historical dam construction, recreational purposes, and risk management in the context of changing environmental conditions. Its location within El Paso County, Colorado, provides a unique opportunity to study the impact of climate change on water infrastructure in a region known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. With its rich history and ongoing maintenance by the US Army, John Townsend Dam stands as a testament to the importance of responsible water resource management in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1885 |
Dam Length |
470 |
Dam Height |
46 |
River Or Stream |
Spring Branch Pond |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Hydraulic Height |
60 |
Nid Storage |
303 |
Structural Height |
46 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
60 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Cheyenne Mountain State Park
|
||
Turkey Creek Military - Fort Carson
|
||
Wye
|