Ramsey Reservoir Report
Nearby: Sproch, Joseph No 1 Hertneky, Ed
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Ramsey, a privately owned earth dam located in Elbert, Colorado, serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the E Bijou Creek.
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Summary
Completed in 1970, this structure stands at a height of 24 feet and spans 540 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 354 acre-feet. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Ramsey's condition assessment in 2012 was deemed fair, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its effectiveness in flood control.
Managed by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, Ramsey is subject to state regulations and inspections to uphold safety standards. Its spillway, characterized as uncontrolled, has a width of 201 feet to manage potential overflow. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, there is a need for ongoing risk management measures to address any potential vulnerabilities and ensure the dam's ability to withstand extreme weather events exacerbated by climate change. As part of its flood risk reduction strategy, Ramsey plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from inundation and minimizing the impact of high discharge flows.
In the event of an emergency, it is essential for stakeholders to have an updated Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, including contact information and evacuation procedures. While Ramsey's risk profile is considered moderate, proactive measures such as regular inspections, maintenance, and adherence to guidelines can help mitigate potential risks and ensure the long-term resilience of this vital water resource infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
540 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
E BIJOU CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
26 |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Drainage Area |
3 |
Nid Storage |
354 |
Structural Height |
24 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
24 |
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.
Ramsey