Fortune Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Fortune is a public utility water supply dam located in Westminster, Colorado, along the Big Dry Creek-TR river.


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Summary

Built in 2001 by THE APPLEGATE GROUP, this earth dam stands at 113 feet high and serves a critical role in water management for Jefferson County. With a maximum storage capacity of 10,219 acre-feet and a normal storage of 9,800 acre-feet, Fortune plays a vital role in ensuring water security for the region.

Despite its importance, Fortune poses a high hazard potential due to its size and location. However, regular inspections have deemed its condition satisfactory, with the last assessment conducted in October 2020. While the dam has an uncontrolled spillway and one outlet valve, it has not undergone any modifications since its completion. Its risk assessment categorizes it as moderate, indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and management measures to ensure the safety of surrounding communities in the event of an emergency.

As water resources and climate enthusiasts, the data on Fortune provides valuable insights into the infrastructure supporting Colorado's water supply. Understanding the intricacies of this essential structure, from its design and construction to its current condition and risk assessment, is crucial for safeguarding water resources in the face of changing climate conditions. With Fortune's strategic location and significant storage capacity, it serves as a key asset in the region's water management efforts and underscores the importance of proactive maintenance and monitoring to mitigate potential risks.

Year Completed

2001

Dam Length

5026

Dam Height

113

River Or Stream

BIG DRY CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

160

Hydraulic Height

112

Nid Storage

10219

Structural Height

134

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

134
       
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.