Worster Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 27, 2025

Worster, also known as Eaton, is a private dam located in Larimer County, Colorado, specifically in the city of Fort Collins.


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Summary

Built in 1911, Worster serves primarily for irrigation purposes along the Sheep Creek river. The dam stands at a height of 72 feet with a hydraulic height of 68 feet and a structural height of 78 feet, providing a storage capacity of 4018 acre-feet with a normal storage level of 3750 acre-feet.

With a significant hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of October 2019, Worster is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources and is subject to regular inspections, enforcement, and permitting. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 95 feet, and a maximum discharge capacity of 192 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, Worster's risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, with a DSAC assignment date yet to be determined, and no specific risk management measures outlined.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Worster an intriguing structure due to its historical significance, location in a scenic area, and the vital role it plays in supporting agricultural activities through irrigation. As a privately owned dam with state regulation and oversight, Worster serves as a reminder of the importance of proper dam maintenance and management to ensure public safety and the sustainable use of water resources in the region.

Year Completed

1911

Dam Length

705

Dam Height

72

River Or Stream

SHEEP CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

134

Hydraulic Height

68

Drainage Area

10

Nid Storage

4018

Structural Height

78

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

78
       
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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.