Summary
Completed in 1951, this earth dam serves primarily for irrigation purposes but also supports recreation and water supply. With a height of 21 feet and a length of 600 feet, Hecla has a storage capacity of 315 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 255 acre-feet. The dam has a low hazard potential and was assessed to be in fair condition as of August 2014.
Despite its relatively low hazard potential, Hecla is classified as having a high risk level (2). The dam lacks a spillway but has a spillway width of 8 feet. Due to its location in a remote area, the dam has a limited drainage area of 0 square miles. While it has not been modified in recent years, Hecla undergoes inspections every 6 years to ensure its structural integrity and safety standards are maintained. The dam is not owned or funded by any federal agencies, and its operations and regulatory oversight are managed by the Colorado Division of Water Resources (DWR).
With its picturesque setting and vital role in supporting irrigation and water supply in the region, Hecla is an important water resource infrastructure in Colorado. Its fair condition and regular inspections provide reassurance to the community, even though it is categorized as having a high risk level. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the intricacies of dams like Hecla can offer valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with managing water resources in a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
BIG GRIZZLY CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
15 |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Nid Storage |
315 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
21 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Hidden Lakes
|
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Hidden Lakes Campground
|
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Grizzly Guard Station Recreation Rental
|
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Dumont Lake Campground
|
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Grizzly Creek
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Hecla