Grimes Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Grimes, also known as Cash Canyon, is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Montezuma County, Colorado.


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Summary

Built in 1947, this earth dam stands at a height of 21 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 103 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Grimes is to provide irrigation water for the surrounding area, with a drainage area of 3 square miles and a normal storage capacity of 75 acre-feet.

Despite its low hazard potential, Grimes has been assessed as unsatisfactory in terms of its condition, with a high risk rating. The dam lacks a spillway and has a maximum discharge capacity of 450 cubic feet per second. Regular inspections are conducted by the state regulatory agency to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. In case of emergencies, proper risk management measures are in place to mitigate potential risks associated with the dam.

Grimes serves as a crucial water resource in the region, contributing to the irrigation needs of the local agriculture industry. With its historical significance and role in water management, Grimes stands as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring infrastructure to safeguard against potential hazards and ensure sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1947

Dam Length

260

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

CASH CANYON

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

27

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

103

Structural Height

36

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

36
       
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.