M. H. Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

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Summary

H. is a privately owned dam located in Elbert, Colorado, with a primary purpose of irrigation. Completed in 1906, this earth dam stands at a height of 19 feet and has a length of 415 feet. It has a storage capacity of 180 acre-feet and serves the surrounding area with a normal storage of 70 acre-feet. The dam is situated on E. Bijou Creek-TR and is under the regulatory jurisdiction of the Colorado Department of Water Resources.

With a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, M. H. is considered to have a moderate risk level. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 120 feet, capable of handling a maximum discharge of 6000 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, M. H. has been inspected regularly, with the last assessment conducted in October 2016. The dam's risk management measures and emergency action plans are yet to be fully detailed, but it remains a crucial infrastructure for irrigation in the region.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, M. H. offers a fascinating insight into the history and functionality of dams in Colorado. Its location on the E. Bijou Creek-TR and proximity to Deer Trail make it a key player in the local agricultural landscape. With its moderate risk level and ongoing regulatory oversight, M. H. stands as a testament to the importance of maintaining and managing water resources in a sustainable and responsible manner.

Year Completed

1906

Dam Length

415

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

E. BIJOU CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16

Hydraulic Height

19

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

180

Structural Height

19

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

19
       
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.