Built in 1935 for irrigation purposes, the dam stands at 20 feet tall with a hydraulic height of 25 feet and a structural height of 29 feet. It has a length of 1084 feet and a storage capacity of 476 acre-feet, with normal storage reaching 351 acre-feet. The dam is situated along Buffalo Creek-TR and is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Buffalo poses a moderate risk, scoring a 3 on the risk assessment scale. The dam has an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 21 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 218 cubic feet per second. It is subject to regular inspections every 6 years, with the last assessment conducted in July 2015. The dam's emergency action plan status, inundation maps, and risk management measures are not currently available, highlighting areas for potential improvement in disaster preparedness and response.
Overall, Buffalo serves as a vital infrastructure for irrigation in the region, ensuring water availability for agricultural purposes. However, with its age and moderate risk level, there is a need for continued monitoring and potential updates to enhance safety and emergency response capabilities. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Buffalo's role in water management while also recognizing the importance of proactive maintenance and risk mitigation efforts to safeguard against potential hazards.
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
1084 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
BUFFALO CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
50 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Nid Storage |
476 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
29 |
Begins 0.5 Miles Away From Trail Ridge Road To Ends Where River Segment Exits Rocky Mountain National Park
Roaring Fork (West Section Line Sec 28 T9N, R82W); Red Canyon (Nw1/4 Sec 5, T8N, R82W) To East Section Line Sec 34, T9N, R82W
Headwaters To Ends 0.5 Miles Upstream From End Of Fern Lake Road
Headwaters To Ends 0.5 Miles Away From Trail Ridge Road
Headwaters Of North, Middle And South Forks To Confluence Of South Fork With Encampment River
Big South