Trescott #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Trescott #1 is a privately owned earth dam located in Elbert, Colorado, along the West Bijou Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1972 for flood risk reduction, this dam stands at 26 feet tall and spans a length of 480 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 40 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is to mitigate the risk of flooding in the area, with a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of the last inspection in February 2017.

Managed by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, Trescott #1 is regulated and permitted by the state, with regular inspections conducted to ensure its structural integrity and safety. While the dam has an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 80 feet, it has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, indicating the need for ongoing risk management measures. Despite its moderate risk level, the dam has not undergone any modifications since its completion, and it meets the state's guidelines for emergency action plans.

Overall, Trescott #1 serves as a crucial infrastructure for flood risk reduction in the region, showcasing the importance of proper dam management and maintenance to protect water resources and communities from potential hazards. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the efforts put into ensuring the safety and functionality of this essential structure, highlighting the intersection of water management, climate resilience, and public safety.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

480

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

WEST BIJOU CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

17

Nid Storage

40

Structural Height

26

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

26
       
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.