Ott Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ott Reservoir, also known as Hovey Reservoir, is a historical earth dam located in Fremont County, Colorado, primarily used for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1895, this reservoir stands at a height of 31 feet and has a storage capacity of 40 acre-feet. Situated along the Fourmile Creek, Ott Reservoir plays a crucial role in providing water for agricultural needs in the region.

Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Ott Reservoir is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway, ensuring the safe discharge of excess water during periods of heavy rainfall. The reservoir covers a surface area of 4 acres and has a maximum discharge capacity of 278 cubic feet per second. With its strategic location in Florence and proximity to various recreational areas, Ott Reservoir serves as a vital water resource for both irrigation and fire protection purposes in the surrounding community.

Managed by the Colorado Department of Water Resources (DWR), Ott Reservoir undergoes regular inspections and enforcement measures to maintain its structural integrity and operational efficiency. With its moderate risk assessment and established risk management measures, Ott Reservoir stands as a testament to responsible water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions. As a key component of the local water infrastructure, Ott Reservoir continues to play a significant role in sustaining agricultural activities and ensuring water security in Colorado.

Year Completed

1895

Dam Length

744

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

FOURMILE CREEK-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

11

Nid Storage

40

Structural Height

31

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

31
       
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.