Kitson Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Kitson is a historic irrigation dam located in Mesa, Colorado, along the Cottonwood Creek-TR river system.


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Summary

Built in 1911, this earth dam stands at a height of 18 feet and has a storage capacity of 254 acre-feet, primarily serving the purpose of irrigation for the surrounding area. Despite its age, Kitson has undergone modifications in 1986 to enhance its hydraulic, mechanical, and structural components, ensuring its functionality and safety.

With a spillway width of 12 feet and a hazard potential rated as high, Kitson is closely monitored for any signs of deterioration. The dam's condition was last assessed as fair in July 2020, and its emergency action plan is regularly updated to meet guidelines. While the risk assessment categorizes Kitson as having moderate risks, measures for risk management are yet to be specified. Overall, Kitson remains an essential water resource structure in Colorado, serving both irrigation and recreational purposes for the local community.

Years Modified

1986 - Hydraulic, 1986 - Mechanical, 1986 - Structural

Year Completed

1911

Dam Length

510

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

COTTONWOOD CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

19

Hydraulic Height

18

Nid Storage

254

Structural Height

20

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

20
       
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.