Morrison Raw Water Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Morrison Raw Water, also known as Operations Reservoir, is a critical water resource managed by local government authorities in Jefferson County, Colorado.


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Summary

This dam, completed in 1982, serves primarily for water supply purposes, with a storage capacity of 42 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 29 acre-feet. Situated along Bear Creek, the dam stands at a height of 40 feet and spans 655 feet in length, with a spillway width of 52 feet.

With a high hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of October 2020, Morrison Raw Water plays a crucial role in ensuring water security for the surrounding area. The dam's uncontrolled spillway design allows for a maximum discharge of 2222 cubic feet per second in case of overflow, highlighting the importance of proper management and monitoring. Despite being state-regulated and inspected, the dam's risk assessment categorizes it as moderate (3), prompting the need for ongoing risk management measures to mitigate potential threats.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, Morrison Raw Water stands as a key asset for water supply in the region. Its strategic location in Morrison, Colorado, coupled with its structural integrity and storage capacity, underscores its vital role in safeguarding water security amidst evolving environmental challenges. As enthusiasts in water resources and climate, understanding and advocating for the sustainable management of dams like Morrison Raw Water is essential to ensure resilience and adaptability in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1982

Dam Length

655

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

BEAR CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

40

Nid Storage

42

Structural Height

40

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

40
       
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.