Belisle Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Belisle, also known as Allen Plant Raw Water or North Reservoir, is a water supply dam located in Arapahoe County, Colorado.


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Summary

Built in 1953, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and stretches 3050 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 398 acre-feet. Situated on Big Dry Creek-OS, Belisle serves as a crucial water source for the city of Englewood and is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources.

The dam's primary purpose is water supply, with a spillway width of 2 feet and a maximum discharge rate of 27 cubic feet per second. Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, Belisle is currently assessed to be in fair condition. It undergoes inspections every two years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With its moderate risk level and adherence to state regulations for permitting, inspection, and enforcement, Belisle plays a vital role in maintaining water resources in the region.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Belisle's contribution to water supply infrastructure in Colorado. As a locally-owned dam serving the community with a regulated operation, Belisle exemplifies the importance of maintaining and managing water resources effectively. Its strategic location on Big Dry Creek-OS and adherence to state regulations demonstrate a commitment to sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

3050

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

BIG DRY CREEK-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

28

Hydraulic Height

30

Nid Storage

398

Structural Height

40

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

40
       
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.