Rock Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Rock is a private irrigation dam located in Cowdrey, Colorado, on Newcomb Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1961, this earth-type structure stands 14 feet tall and spans 600 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 76 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, Rock is regulated by the Colorado Division of Water Resources, with regular inspections and enforcement measures in place to ensure its safety and functionality.

With a normal storage capacity of 56 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 588 cubic feet per second, Rock plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the region. Although it has not undergone a recent condition assessment, the dam is considered to have a high risk due to its age and lack of updated emergency preparedness measures. While it currently does not have a spillway, Rock's location and structural integrity are closely monitored to prevent any potential risks to downstream communities.

As a vital piece of infrastructure in the area, Rock serves as a reminder of the importance of water resource management and climate resilience. Its history, design, and regulatory oversight highlight the intricate balance between meeting irrigation needs and ensuring public safety. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the ongoing efforts to maintain and monitor Rock to protect both the environment and local communities from potential hazards.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

NEWCOMB CREEK-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

14

Nid Storage

76

Structural Height

14

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

14
       
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.