Timpas 1_(Browning & Reese #1) Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Timpas 1_(Browning & Reese #1) is a Federal-owned earth dam located in Otero, Colorado, with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.
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Summary
Completed in 1916 by the Forest Service, this dam stands at a height of 16 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 500 acre-feet. It is situated on Dry Gulch, with a drainage area of 2 square miles and a maximum discharge rate of 3000 cubic feet per second.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Timpas 1_(Browning & Reese #1) is deemed to have a moderate risk, with a moderate (3) risk assessment rating. The dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, and the last inspection conducted was in September 2013, with an inspection frequency of every 10 years. While it meets state regulations for permitting, inspection, and enforcement, there is no Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, and the risk management measures are not specified.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Timpas 1_(Browning & Reese #1) presents an intriguing case study of a century-old dam that continues to serve multiple purposes in a semi-arid region. With its historical significance and potential risks, this dam highlights the importance of regular inspections, risk assessments, and emergency preparedness for ensuring the safety and sustainability of water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1916 |
Dam Length |
750 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
DRY GULCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Drainage Area |
2 |
Nid Storage |
500 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Timpas 1_(Browning & Reese #1)