Verhoeff Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Verhoeff is a privately owned dam located in Kit Carson, Colorado, along Mud Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1912, this Earth type dam stands at a height of 22 feet and serves primarily for irrigation purposes, with a storage capacity of 721 acre-feet. The dam has a surface area of 63 acres and a drainage area of 8 square miles, with a maximum discharge capacity of 5800 cubic feet per second.

Despite being classified as low hazard potential, Verhoeff has a fair condition assessment as of its last inspection in July 2008. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 120 feet and has undergone regular inspections every 6 years. The risk assessment for this structure is moderate, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its safety and functionality for the surrounding area.

Located in St. Francis, Kansas, Verhoeff plays a crucial role in providing water for irrigation and fire protection in the region. With its historical significance dating back over a century, this dam stands as a testament to the engineering and water resource management efforts that have shaped the landscape of Colorado and its surrounding areas. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Verhoeff serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices to ensure the resilience of our ecosystems in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1912

Dam Length

1800

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

MUD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

63

Hydraulic Height

24

Drainage Area

8

Nid Storage

721

Structural Height

24

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

24
       
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.