Floodwater Ret Dam Ss-3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Floodwater Retention Dam Ss-3, also known as Sedgwick Sand Draw, is a crucial infrastructure owned by the local government in Sedgwick County, Colorado.


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Summary

Built in 1982 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the South Platte River. With a height of 51 feet and a hydraulic height of 45 feet, it has a storage capacity of 3,148 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 148 acres.

Situated in a strategic location at S26, T.12N, R.47W, 6th PM, this dam plays a significant role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flood events. With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, it is inspected every three years to ensure its structural integrity. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, measuring 284 feet in width, allows for a maximum discharge of 7,659 cubic feet per second, further enhancing its flood management capabilities.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, Floodwater Retention Dam Ss-3 stands as a testament to effective flood risk reduction infrastructure in the region. Its design and construction by the USDA NRCS have proven instrumental in safeguarding the community from potential flooding, making it a vital asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.

Year Completed

1982

Dam Length

2500

Dam Height

51

River Or Stream

SOUTH PLATTE-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

148

Hydraulic Height

45

Drainage Area

19

Nid Storage

3148

Structural Height

51

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 0

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

51
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.