Freeland #4 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Freeland #4 is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Gardner, Colorado, along Williams Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1909, this earth dam stands at a height of 19 feet and has a length of 1040 feet, providing a storage capacity of 91 acre-feet for irrigation purposes. Despite its age, the dam is considered to have a low hazard potential and has not been officially rated for its condition. The last inspection conducted on the dam was in 1992.

This historic structure plays a crucial role in water management in the area, serving as a vital resource for agricultural activities in Huerfano County. While it has not undergone any major modifications in recent years, the dam continues to contribute to the local economy by supporting irrigation practices and ensuring a stable water supply for farmers in the region. With its high risk assessment rating of 2, there is a growing need for enhanced risk management measures to safeguard the integrity of the dam and protect downstream communities in the event of a potential failure.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor the state of Freeland #4, discussions on the importance of maintaining and upgrading aging infrastructure like this dam are becoming increasingly relevant. With the potential for changing climate patterns and increasing strain on water resources, the resilience of structures like Freeland #4 will be crucial in ensuring sustainable water management practices for the future. It is essential for stakeholders to work together to implement necessary improvements and address any potential risks associated with this key irrigation facility.

Year Completed

1909

Dam Length

1040

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

WILLIAMS CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

19

Nid Storage

91

Structural Height

19

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

19
       
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.