Summary
With a height of 8 feet and a length of 200 feet, Hap has a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet and a surface area of 13 acres. Despite its low hazard potential, Hap is considered to have a high risk level due to its condition assessment being labeled as "Not Rated."
Although Hap is regulated and inspected by the Colorado Division of Water Resources, it has not undergone a condition assessment and lacks an emergency action plan. The dam poses a potential risk, especially considering its age and the lack of recent inspection data. While it serves multiple purposes such as fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond usage in addition to irrigation, the absence of key safety measures raises concerns about its ability to withstand potential climate-related challenges.
Given its location in a region vulnerable to climate change impacts such as increased precipitation variability and extreme weather events, the importance of monitoring and maintaining Hap cannot be understated. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to advocate for the implementation of necessary risk management measures and emergency preparedness protocols to ensure the safety and longevity of this vital water infrastructure in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1925 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
BUFFALO CREEK-OS |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13 |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Nid Storage |
50 |
Structural Height |
8 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
8 |
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.
Hap