Vancil Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Vancil, also known as the Cecil J.


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Summary

Osborne Dam, is a privately-owned structure located in Snyder, Colorado along the South Platte-OS River. Completed in 1990, this earth dam stands at a height of 40 feet with a hydraulic height of 53 feet and a structural height of 46 feet. It serves primarily for irrigation purposes, with a storage capacity of 9100 acre-feet and a surface area of 306 acres.

This dam, regulated by the Colorado Division of Water Resources, has been assessed to have a significant hazard potential but is currently in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in May 2019. Despite its high risk assessment, the dam meets regulatory guidelines and is inspected every two years to ensure its safety and effectiveness in water resource management. With no spillway type noted, Vancil plays a crucial role in the local irrigation system and contributes to the water infrastructure in Morgan County, Colorado.

Enthusiasts interested in water resource management and climate impact can appreciate Vancil as a vital structure in the region's water supply network. Its presence along the South Platte-OS River highlights the importance of efficient irrigation systems in agricultural areas. Monitoring its condition and risk assessment is crucial for sustainable water management practices, especially in a state like Colorado that faces various climate challenges. Vancil stands as a testament to the intersection of human infrastructure with natural resources, embodying the delicate balance required for effective water resource management in a changing climate.

Year Completed

1990

Dam Length

6425

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

SOUTH PLATTE-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

306

Hydraulic Height

53

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

9100

Structural Height

46

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

53
       
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.