Nichols Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Nichols, also known as Northfield #4, is a key water resource located in El Paso County, Colorado, specifically in the city of Colorado Springs.


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Summary

This dam, completed in 1929, serves primarily for water supply purposes and has a maximum storage capacity of 625 acre-feet. The dam, standing at 56 feet tall with a length of 425 feet, holds back the waters of the West Monument Creek, providing essential water resources to the surrounding areas.

Managed by the local government, Nichols Dam is regulated and inspected by the Colorado Division of Water Resources to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the condition of the dam is assessed as fair, with the last inspection conducted in August 2018. The emergency action plan for the dam is in place, although it has not been updated recently, and the risk assessment for the dam is moderate, indicating the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential risks.

Overall, Nichols Dam plays a crucial role in water supply and recreation in the region, highlighting the importance of sustainable water resource management and infrastructure maintenance in the face of changing climate conditions. With its historical significance and functional purpose, Nichols Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management, climate resilience, and community well-being in Colorado.

Year Completed

1929

Dam Length

425

Dam Height

56

River Or Stream

WEST MONUMENT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

21

Hydraulic Height

49

Drainage Area

12

Nid Storage

625

Structural Height

57

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

57
       
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.