Thatcher Reservoir Report
Nearby: Tolle & Ditch #1 J.H. Holland No. 2
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Thatcher, also known as Langford Storage, is a private water resource located in Pueblo, Colorado, specifically in the city of Boone.
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Summary
Built in 1971, this earth dam serves primarily for irrigation purposes, with a maximum storage capacity of 85 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 40 acre-feet. The dam stands at a height of 12 feet and stretches 1500 feet in length, containing 15 acres of surface area within a drainage area of 7 square miles.
Despite having a low hazard potential, Thatcher poses a high risk due to its condition being unrated and its last inspection dating back to November 1976. The dam does not have a spillway, and there is no emergency action plan (EAP) prepared or updated for the site. This lack of recent oversight and risk management measures underscores the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety and longevity of this crucial water resource in the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Thatcher offers an intriguing case study in the intersection of infrastructure, regulation, and environmental risk. The dam's location along Haynes Creek and its impact on irrigation, fire protection, and wildlife habitats present a complex ecosystem to monitor and manage. With its proximity to a congressional district and state regulatory agencies like the Department of Water Resources (DWR), Thatcher serves as a focal point for ongoing discussions around dam safety, water allocation, and climate resilience in Colorado. As stakeholders work to address the high risk associated with this structure, there is an opportunity to enhance collaboration, data sharing, and emergency preparedness to safeguard Thatcher and other critical water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Length |
1500 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
HAYNES CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
15 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
7 |
Nid Storage |
85 |
Structural Height |
12 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Arkansas River Near Avondale
|
373cfs |
Huerfano River Near Boone
|
0cfs |
St. Charles River At Vineland
|
7cfs |
Fountain Creek Near Pinon
|
91cfs |
Arkansas River Near Nepesta
|
305cfs |
Fountain Creek At Pueblo
|
124cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Thatcher