Horsetooth - Spring Canyon Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Horsetooth - Spring Canyon is a Federal-owned water resource infrastructure located in Larimer County, Colorado, specifically in Fort Collins.


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Summary

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
       
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.