Rist Canyon Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rist Canyon is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Larimer County, Colorado.


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Summary

Completed in 1882, this Earth-type dam stands at 12 feet tall and spans 800 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 63 acre-feet. Situated on the Rist Canyon stream, the dam serves the primary purpose of irrigation for the surrounding area, with a normal storage capacity of 57 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 6 cubic feet per second.

Despite its low hazard potential, Rist Canyon dam has been assessed as unsatisfactory in condition, with the last inspection conducted in October 2013. The risk assessment for the dam is categorized as moderate, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety and functionality of the structure. With state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place, the dam is subject to oversight by the Colorado Division of Water Resources (DWR), ensuring compliance with safety standards and regulations.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Rist Canyon presents an intriguing case study of an older irrigation dam with historical significance in Colorado. With its Earth-type construction, moderate risk assessment, and unsatisfactory condition, the dam serves as a reminder of the ongoing maintenance challenges faced by aging infrastructure in the region. As efforts are made to address the structural concerns and ensure the safety of the dam, the story of Rist Canyon continues to unfold, reflecting the intersection of water management, engineering, and environmental stewardship in the face of evolving climate conditions.

Year Completed

1882

Dam Length

800

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

RIST CANYON

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

5

Nid Storage

63

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
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.