White Owl Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

White Owl Dam, located in the scenic White Owl Creek in Dotserso, Colorado, is a federally owned structure primarily used for fish and wildlife conservation and recreation purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1967 by the USDA Forest Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 9 feet and has a storage capacity of 197 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is regularly inspected by the Forest Service to ensure its safety and functionality.

The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 18 feet and has a structural height of 13 feet. Despite not having a designated surface area or drainage area, White Owl Dam serves as a vital resource for the surrounding ecosystem and provides a serene recreational setting for outdoor enthusiasts. Its location in Garfield County, Colorado, highlights the importance of water resource management in maintaining a balanced environment for both wildlife and human enjoyment.

As a regulated and permitted structure under the oversight of the Colorado Department of Water Resources, White Owl Dam plays a crucial role in water conservation and flood control efforts in the region. With its strategic positioning and purposeful design, this dam serves as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of water resources and climate considerations in the conservation and management of natural landscapes.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

158

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

WHITE OWL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

8

Nid Storage

197

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

13
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.