40th Street Dentention Basin Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The 40th Street Detention Basin in Pueblo, Colorado, designed by CH2MHILL, serves as a crucial flood risk reduction infrastructure in the area.


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Summary

Completed in 1998, this earth dam stands at a height of 21 feet and has a hydraulic height of 19 feet, with a length of 961 feet and a storage capacity of 82 acre-feet. Situated on an unnamed tributary of the Fountain-OS River, this state-regulated basin plays a significant role in managing stormwater and reducing the risk of flooding in the region.

With a satisfactory condition assessment and a significant hazard potential, the 40th Street Detention Basin is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and has a maximum discharge capacity of 1189 cubic feet per second. The basin covers a surface area of 6 acres and holds a normal storage volume of 77 acre-feet. The dam's associated structures include stone core types and soil foundations, emphasizing its reliability in flood risk mitigation. Regular inspections and a moderate risk assessment ensure the basin's effectiveness in addressing potential emergencies and maintaining public safety.

The 40th Street Detention Basin represents a critical piece of infrastructure in the flood management system of Pueblo, Colorado. With its strategic location and state-of-the-art design, this basin not only provides flood risk reduction but also contributes to the overall resilience of the community in the face of changing climate conditions. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding and appreciating the significance of structures like the 40th Street Detention Basin is essential in safeguarding our communities against the impacts of extreme weather events and ensuring sustainable water management practices for the future.

Year Completed

1998

Dam Length

961

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TRIB FOUNTAIN-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Hydraulic Height

19

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

82

Structural Height

21

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

21
       
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.