Summary
This dam is regulated by the Colorado Division of Water Resources and is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity. With a height of 25 feet and a length of 600 feet, Hardesty has a storage capacity of 2869 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 326 acres.
Despite its age, Hardesty has been assessed to be in fair condition with a low hazard potential. The dam has a spillway width of 75 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 1052 cubic feet per second. In case of emergencies, the dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status is currently unknown. The risk assessment for Hardesty is rated as moderate, with measures for risk management yet to be determined.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Hardesty provides a fascinating example of early dam construction and the importance of regular maintenance and inspection. Its location on the Mustang-OS river system in Pueblo County, Colorado, showcases the intersection of human infrastructure with natural water systems. As efforts continue to manage and mitigate risks associated with aging dams, the story of Hardesty serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges and responsibilities in safeguarding our water resources.
Year Completed |
1905 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
MUSTANG-OS |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
326 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
16 |
Nid Storage |
2869 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
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.
Hardesty