Lutz Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lutz, also known as Davis Lake, is a privately owned dam located in Brighton, Adams County, Colorado.


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Summary

Built in 1907, this earth dam stands at a height of 8 feet and has a length of 2580 feet, serving primarily for irrigation purposes. The reservoir has a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 36 acre-feet and a surface area of 18 acres.

Despite its low hazard potential, Lutz poses a high risk (rated 2) due to its condition assessment being not rated and lacking recent inspection data. The dam does not have a spillway, but its maximum discharge capacity is reported to be 220 cubic feet per second. While the Emergency Action Plan (EAP) was last revised in 1993, there is no information on whether it meets current guidelines or if inundation maps have been prepared.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the maintenance and safety of dams, Lutz presents an intriguing case study. With its historical significance and the potential risks associated with its current condition, this privately owned structure highlights the importance of regular inspections, risk assessments, and emergency preparedness measures to ensure the safety and integrity of water resources in the region.

Year Completed

1907

Dam Length

2580

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

SOUTH PLATTE RIVER-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

18

Hydraulic Height

8

Nid Storage

90

Structural Height

8

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

8
       
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.