Summary
This Earth dam stands at a height of 34 feet and spans 465 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 140 acre-feet. The dam serves the primary purpose of irrigation and is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, with inspections conducted every 6 years to ensure its fair condition and low hazard potential.
Despite its age, Milk Creek Dam has undergone a structural modification in 1989 to maintain its integrity and functionality. The spillway, with a width of 20 feet, is designed as uncontrolled, and the dam is equipped with a slide (sluice gate) outlet gate for water release. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam's risk management measures and emergency action plan status remain unreported, indicating the need for further evaluation and preparation in case of unforeseen events. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Milk Creek presents a compelling case study of historical infrastructure that continues to play a vital role in sustaining agricultural activities in the region.
Years Modified |
1989 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1913 |
Dam Length |
465 |
Dam Height |
34 |
River Or Stream |
MILK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Hydraulic Height |
34 |
Drainage Area |
3 |
Nid Storage |
140 |
Structural Height |
34 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
34 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Red Dirt Reservoir Recreation Area
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Rabbit Ears Pass Camp
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Dumont Lake Campground
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Dumont Lake
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Walton Creek
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Meadows
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Milk Creek