Willow Creek Forebay Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Willow Creek Forebay Dam, located in Grand County, Colorado, is a significant earth dam with a hydraulic height of 95 feet and a structural height of 127 feet.


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Summary

Completed in 1953, this dam serves as a crucial water resource infrastructure, providing a storage capacity of 10,600 acre-feet to regulate the flow of Willow Creek. Managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, this federal-owned structure plays a vital role in water management and regulation in the region.

With the responsibility of inspection, enforcement, and permitting falling under the Bureau of Reclamation, Willow Creek Forebay Dam is a well-regulated and maintained structure with a low hazard potential. Although the condition assessment is currently not available, the dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures are essential components in ensuring the safety and integrity of the dam. The dam's location in an area prone to climate variability underscores the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring to adapt to changing environmental conditions.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, Willow Creek Forebay Dam stands as a crucial asset in managing water supply and flood control in the region. With its role in regulating the flow of Willow Creek and providing storage capacity, this dam highlights the significance of resilient water management practices in the face of evolving climate challenges. The collaboration between federal agencies, state regulators, and local stakeholders is essential in ensuring the continued effectiveness and safety of this vital water resource structure.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

1100

River Or Stream

WILLOW CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

95

Drainage Area

134

Nid Storage

10600

Structural Height

127

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

127
       
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.