Reservoir #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Reservoir #1, also known as North McCabe or Cowden, is a privately owned irrigation reservoir located in Las Animas, Colorado.


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Summary

Completed in 1920, this earth dam stands at 8 feet tall and spans a length of 1638 feet, with a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Reservoir #1 is irrigation, serving as a vital water source for agricultural activities in the area.

Despite its low hazard potential, Reservoir #1 is considered to have a high risk level, with a risk assessment rating of 2. Although the dam has not been rated for its condition, it is regularly inspected by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, with the last inspection taking place in August 1990. While the reservoir does not have a spillway, it is equipped with outlet gates for water release.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management and maintenance of irrigation reservoirs will find Reservoir #1 to be a noteworthy structure in the region. With its historical significance, storage capacity, and risk assessment, this privately owned dam plays a crucial role in sustaining agricultural activities in Crowley County, Colorado.

Year Completed

1920

Dam Length

1638

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

POND CREEK-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

40

Hydraulic Height

8

Nid Storage

200

Structural Height

8

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

8
       
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.