Summary
This reservoir, completed in 1904, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, small fish pond, and irrigation. With a dam height of 10 feet and a length of 3200 feet, Best has a storage capacity of 1422 acre-feet and a surface area of 161 acres. The reservoir is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources and is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity.
Despite being classified as low hazard potential, Best poses a high risk due to its condition assessment being labeled as "Not Rated." The reservoir lacks an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and has not been updated or prepared for emergency situations. However, it is reassuring to note that the state agency responsible for the regulation, inspection, and enforcement of water resources has confirmed that the dam meets state permitting requirements. With its location in Las Animas and proximity to Mustang Creek-OS, Best is a vital resource for the surrounding community and wildlife.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Best presents an intriguing case study of a historical earth dam that continues to serve its primary purposes despite its aging infrastructure. The reservoir's risk assessment and lack of an EAP highlight the importance of regular maintenance and emergency preparedness for water storage facilities. As climate change impacts water availability and quality, ensuring the safety and reliability of reservoirs like Best becomes increasingly crucial in sustaining ecosystems and communities that depend on them.
Year Completed |
1904 |
Dam Length |
3200 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
MUSTANG CREEK-OS |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
161 |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Nid Storage |
1422 |
Structural Height |
10 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
10 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Best