Floodwater Ret Dam Ss-7 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Floodwater Retention Dam Ss-7, also known as Sedgwick-Sand Draw Ss-7, is a vital structure located in Ovid, Colorado, designed by the USDA NRCS to address flood risk reduction in the region.


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Summary

Completed in 1982, this earth dam stands at a height of 39 feet, with a hydraulic height of 29 feet and a structural height of 43 feet. It has a storage capacity of 1,271 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 805 acre-feet and a surface area of 81 acres.

Situated along the South Platte River, this dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding communities from potential flooding events. Its uncontrolled spillway, 112 feet wide, allows for a maximum discharge of 1,784 cubic feet per second. With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of October 2009, Floodwater Retention Dam Ss-7 remains a reliable infrastructure for flood risk management in Sedgwick County, Colorado.

Managed by local government authorities and regulated by the Department of Water Resources, this dam undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and effectiveness in flood control. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, Floodwater Retention Dam Ss-7 stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of various agencies in safeguarding the community against potential water-related hazards. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this site serves as a prime example of sustainable water management practices in action.

Year Completed

1982

Dam Length

1900

Dam Height

39

River Or Stream

SOUTH PLATTE-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

81

Hydraulic Height

29

Drainage Area

6

Nid Storage

1271

Structural Height

43

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 0

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

43
       
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.