Lower Derby Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lower Derby, located in Commerce City, Colorado, is a federal-owned irrigation reservoir managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers.


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Summary

Built in 1942, this earth dam structure stands at a height of 20 feet and has a storage capacity of 1230 acre-feet, serving multiple purposes including fish and wildlife habitat, irrigation, and water supply. The reservoir covers an area of 80 acres and has a maximum discharge capacity of 15,500 cubic feet per second.

Despite its age, Lower Derby remains a significant water resource in Adams County, Colorado, with a state-regulated status and regular inspections by the Department of Water Resources. The dam underwent structural modifications in 1990 to ensure its safety and functionality. With its proximity to the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, the reservoir plays a crucial role in maintaining water quality and supply for the surrounding area.

Lower Derby's hazard potential is deemed significant, highlighting the importance of proper risk management and emergency preparedness. While the condition assessment is not currently available, the reservoir's inspection frequency is set at four times a year to monitor its structural integrity. With its strategic location and historical significance, Lower Derby continues to be a key asset in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

Years Modified

1990 - Structural

Year Completed

1942

Dam Length

3000

Dam Height

20

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

80

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

10

Nid Storage

1230

Structural Height

20

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled, Vertical Lift

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

20
       
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.