Summary
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 |
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.
Buffalo