Bull Canal (Main Reservoir) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bull Canal, also known as the Main Reservoir, is a key water resource in Weld County, Colorado, primarily used for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Managed by the local government, this earth dam structure was completed in 1982 by designers Sheaffer & Roland. With a height of 35 feet and a length of 10,491 feet, the reservoir has a maximum storage capacity of 4,548 acre-feet and a normal storage of 4,000 acre-feet. Situated along Big Dry Creek-OS, Bull Canal plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the area.

Despite its high hazard potential, Bull Canal has been assessed as satisfactory in condition, with the last inspection conducted in November 2020. The reservoir operates under state regulatory agencies, including the Department of Water Resources, ensuring that it meets safety and environmental standards. With a moderate risk assessment rating, measures for risk management are in place to address potential emergencies. As a significant water management infrastructure in the region, Bull Canal contributes to the sustainable use of water resources and climate resilience efforts in Weld County.

Year Completed

1982

Dam Length

10491

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

BIG DRY CREEK-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

137

Hydraulic Height

35

Nid Storage

4548

Structural Height

65

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

65
       
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.