Horsetooth - Spring Canyon is a Federal-owned water resource infrastructure located in Larimer County, Colorado, specifically in Fort Collins.
Wind
Humidity
This facility serves the primary purpose of irrigation and is managed by the Bureau of Reclamation. Completed in 1949, the Earth-type dam stands at a height of 225 feet, with a hydraulic height of 198 feet and a structural height of 220 feet. The reservoir has a maximum storage capacity of 170,370 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 156,735 acre-feet and a surface area of 1,900 acres.
The Horsetooth - Spring Canyon reservoir plays a crucial role in water management for the Cache La Poudre River and Spring Creek, supporting agricultural irrigation in the region. With a high hazard potential and risk assessment rating of 2, the facility is subject to regular state inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and structural integrity. While no spillway is present, the dam's associated structures include CO01659S001, CO01659S002, and CO01659S003. Emergency action plans have been prepared, with the last revision made in January 2020.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate the significance of Horsetooth - Spring Canyon as a key piece of infrastructure in Colorado's water management system. The dam's impressive height and storage capacity, coupled with its essential role in irrigation, highlight its importance in sustaining agricultural activities in the area. With a focus on safety and risk management, the facility's high hazard potential underscores the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the community's safety and the efficient functioning of the reservoir.
Year Completed |
1949 |
Dam Length |
1120 |
Dam Height |
225 |
River Or Stream |
CACHE LA POUDRE TR, SPRING CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1900 |
Hydraulic Height |
198 |
Drainage Area |
17 |
Nid Storage |
170370 |
Structural Height |
220 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
225 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Inlet Bay - Horsetooth Reservoir
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South Bay - Horsetooth Reservoir
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Boyd Lake State Park
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Flatiron Reservoir
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