Cove Reservoir Report
Nearby: Cove Lake D.D. & E. Wise
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Cove is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Rio Blanco County, Colorado, near the city of Craig.
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Summary
Built in 1918, this Earth-type structure stands at a height of 30 feet and stretches 490 feet in length. With a maximum storage capacity of 164 acre-feet, Cove primarily serves the purpose of irrigation for the surrounding area, drawing water from the Morapos Creek-TR river or stream.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Cove undergoes regular state inspection, enforcement, and permitting by the Colorado Department of Water Resources. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 15 feet, capable of handling a maximum discharge of 351 cubic feet per second. While the risk assessment for Cove is moderate, with a rating of 3 on a scale of 1 to 5, the structure has not been modified in recent years.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the historical significance and engineering details of Cove will find it to be a fascinating example of early 20th-century irrigation infrastructure in Colorado. Its location in a rural setting and regulation by state authorities ensure that it continues to play a vital role in water management for agricultural purposes in the region. With a focus on maintaining safety and functionality, Cove represents a blend of heritage and modern oversight in the realm of water resource management.
Year Completed |
1918 |
Dam Length |
490 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
MORAPOS CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Nid Storage |
164 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Cove