Charles Wilson Detention Dam #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Weld County, Colorado, Charles Wilson Detention Dam #1, also known as Wilson Detention #1, was completed in 1964 with the primary purpose of flood risk reduction.


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Summary

This private earth dam stands at a height of 18 feet with a hydraulic height matching that measurement. The dam's structure stretches 401 feet in length and boasts a maximum storage capacity of 55 acre-feet, primarily serving the purpose of flood risk reduction and irrigation within the area.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Charles Wilson Detention Dam #1 is regulated and inspected by the Colorado Department of Water Resources. The dam, situated along the Little Thompson River, operates under the oversight of the state regulatory agency for permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Despite its age, the dam's condition is currently listed as "Not Rated," with the last inspection conducted in April 2001 on a biennial basis, ensuring the safety and functionality of this crucial water management structure.

This uncontrolled spillway dam provides essential flood control measures for Milliken residents, offering protection against potential inundation events. With a moderate risk profile and a history of effective flood mitigation, Charles Wilson Detention Dam #1 stands as a vital component of the water resource infrastructure in Colorado, serving both practical and environmental purposes in the region.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

401

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

LITTLE THOMPSON-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

18

Nid Storage

55

Structural Height

23

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

23
       
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.