E.M. Curry Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

E.M.


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Summary

Curry, located in Routt, Colorado, is a privately owned irrigation dam on Skinner Creek-TR. Built in 1953, this Earth-type dam stands at 30 feet high and has a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet. With a structural height of 33 feet and a length of 430 feet, E.M. Curry serves the primary purpose of irrigation in the area, benefiting agricultural activities in the region.

Managed by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, E.M. Curry is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state agencies to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is rated as being in fair condition as of the last inspection in May 2019. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, risk management measures are being implemented to address potential issues and ensure the continued functionality of the dam for water resource management in the community.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the sustainable use of water for irrigation in Colorado would find E.M. Curry a fascinating example of private ownership and state regulation working together to manage water resources effectively. With its historical significance and contributions to local agriculture, E.M. Curry stands as a testament to the importance of proper dam management and maintenance in ensuring water security and sustainability for the future.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

430

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

SKINNER CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

27

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

60

Structural Height

33

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

33
       
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.