Upper Turner Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Upper Turner, located in Fremont, Colorado, is a privately-owned irrigation dam with a rich history dating back to 1895.


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Summary

This Earth dam, standing at 34 feet tall and stretching 820 feet in length, primarily serves the purpose of irrigation while also supporting fire protection, stock, small fish ponds, and recreational activities. With a storage capacity of 36 acre-feet, Upper Turner plays a critical role in managing water resources in the area, drawing from Fourmile Creek-OS for its supply.

Despite its age, Upper Turner remains in satisfactory condition and poses a low hazard potential according to recent assessments. The dam is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, ensuring regular inspections, enforcement, and permitting processes are in place to maintain its integrity. The dam's spillway, though uncontrolled, boasts a width of 6 feet to manage any excess water flow. Overall, Upper Turner serves as a testament to sustainable water management practices in the region, balancing agricultural needs with environmental conservation efforts.

With a moderate risk rating of 3, Upper Turner underscores the importance of ongoing risk management measures to protect surrounding communities and downstream areas in the event of emergencies. While the dam has not undergone significant modifications in recent years, its safety protocols and emergency action plans are up to date. As a key feature in the local water infrastructure, Upper Turner stands as a symbol of responsible water resource management and climate resilience, embodying the intersection of history, functionality, and environmental stewardship in the Colorado landscape.

Year Completed

1895

Dam Length

820

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

FOURMILE CREEK-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

34

Nid Storage

36

Structural Height

34

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

34
       
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.