Holbrook Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Holbrook, also known as Lake Canal #1, is a privately owned irrigation reservoir located in Cheraw, Otero County, Colorado.


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Summary

Built in 1890, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a length of 3168 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 10138 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 6258 acre-feet. The reservoir covers a surface area of 660 acres and is primarily used for irrigation purposes, with some recreational activities also taking place.

Managed by the Colorado Division of Water Resources, Holbrook is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state agency to ensure its safety and operational efficiency. The dam has an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 2355 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 10110 cubic feet per second. Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam's condition is assessed as satisfactory, with regular inspections and maintenance carried out to mitigate risks and ensure public safety. The reservoir's risk assessment is moderate, with a rating of 3 out of 5.

Holbrook plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the region by providing a reliable water supply for irrigation. Its historical significance, combined with its function as a key water resource, makes it a valuable asset in the management of water resources and climate adaptation efforts in the area. Enthusiasts interested in water management and climate resilience will find Holbrook to be a fascinating example of how infrastructure like dams can contribute to sustainable water use and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Year Completed

1890

Dam Length

3168

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

ARKANSAS RIVER-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

660

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

14

Nid Storage

10138

Structural Height

25

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 0

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

25
       
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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.