W. Cherry Creek Det. #6 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

W.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Cherry Creek Detention #6, located in El Paso County, Colorado, serves as a crucial flood risk reduction structure along the West Cherry Creek. Built in 1961 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 18 feet and a length of 380 feet, with a maximum discharge capacity of 2104 cubic feet per second. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, regular inspections ensure its operational integrity, with the last assessment conducted in April 2018.

With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, W. Cherry Creek Detention #6 offers a storage capacity of 53 acre-feet, providing protection for the surrounding area against potential flooding events. Its uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 83 feet, allows for the controlled release of excess water during times of high inflow. The structure's risk assessment categorizes it as moderate, highlighting the importance of ongoing risk management measures to ensure the safety of downstream communities in case of emergency situations.

As a state-regulated facility with permitting, inspection, and enforcement mechanisms in place, W. Cherry Creek Detention #6 plays a vital role in water resource management in the region. Its strategic location in Franktown, Colorado, under the jurisdiction of the DWR, underscores its significance in safeguarding the local community against the potential impacts of extreme weather events, showcasing the importance of effective infrastructure for climate resilience and water security.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

380

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

WEST CHERRY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

17

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

53

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.