Empire (East Embankment) Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Empire (East Embankment), also known as New Empire Reservoir, is a private-owned structure located in Morgan, Colorado, along the South Platte River.
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Summary
Built in 1905, this Earth dam stands at a height of 35 feet and has a storage capacity of 51,900 acre-feet, primarily serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond. Its purpose extends to irrigation and recreation, making it a versatile water resource for the surrounding area.
With a surface area of 2,842 acres and a drainage area of 11 square miles, Empire (East Embankment) plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem. Despite its age, the dam is in satisfactory condition and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety. However, its hazard potential is considered high, emphasizing the importance of risk management measures and emergency preparedness.
This historic structure, overseen by the Colorado state regulatory agency DWR, underscores the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. As water enthusiasts and environmental stewards, understanding the significance of Empire (East Embankment) in maintaining biodiversity and supporting various water-related activities is key to advocating for its preservation and sustainable use in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1905 |
Dam Length |
12500 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH PLATTE RIVER-OS |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2842 |
Hydraulic Height |
35 |
Drainage Area |
11 |
Nid Storage |
50900 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Empire (East Embankment)