Floodwater Ret Dam Ss-8.5 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Floodwater Ret Dam Ss-8.5, also known as Debris Drainage Dam Ss-8.5, is a local government-owned structure in Sedgwick, Colorado, designed by USDA NRCS to reduce flood risk along the South Platte River.
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Summary
Completed in 1990, this earth dam stands at a height of 17 feet and has a hydraulic height of 12 feet, with a structural height of 21 feet. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, as well as debris control, and it has a maximum storage capacity of 102 acre-feet.
Located in Ovid, Colorado, this dam spans a length of 1000 feet and features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 52 feet. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, it is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement by the Colorado Department of Water Resources. The dam has undergone its last inspection in September 2015, with a recommended inspection frequency of every 6 years to ensure its continued safety and effectiveness in mitigating flood risks in the region.
Overall, Floodwater Ret Dam Ss-8.5 plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from flooding, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. While it may not be a high-risk structure, its strategic placement along the South Platte River underscores its importance in managing water resources and climate-related hazards in Sedgwick County. As a key component of the local flood control system, this dam serves as a vital infrastructure asset in safeguarding the community against potential water-related disasters.
Year Completed |
1990 |
Dam Length |
1000 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH PLATTE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Nid Storage |
102 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
S. Platte R. At Julesburg
|
-999cfs |
South Platte River Near Crook
|
162cfs |
South Platte River At Roscoe Nebr
|
209cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Floodwater Ret Dam Ss-8.5