Ordway Town Res. Cell No. 2 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Henry Lake Meredith
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Ordway Town Reservoir Cell No.
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Summary
2, also known as Ordway Reservoir, is a local government-owned water resource located in Crowley County, Colorado. Built in 1935 by the Works Progress Administration, this earth dam stands at a height of 19 feet with a length of 2880 feet, providing irrigation water from the Bob Creek-OS for the surrounding area. With a storage capacity of 220 acre-feet and a surface area of 18 acres, this reservoir plays a vital role in supporting agricultural activities in the region.
Despite its low hazard potential, Ordway Town Reservoir Cell No. 2 currently has an unsatisfactory condition assessment as of May 2020. The dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations. Although the reservoir lacks a spillway and has no associated locks, it is equipped with drum outlet gates for water release. The risk assessment categorizes this dam as high risk, emphasizing the need for proper risk management measures to mitigate any potential threats.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Ordway Town Reservoir Cell No. 2 to be a fascinating example of historical water infrastructure in Colorado. Its significance in providing irrigation water to the local community highlights the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions. As efforts continue to improve its condition and reduce risks associated with the dam, this reservoir serves as a reminder of the critical role that water resources play in supporting agricultural activities and ensuring water security for future generations.
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
2880 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
BOB CREEK-OS |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
18 |
Hydraulic Height |
19 |
Nid Storage |
220 |
Structural Height |
19 |
Outlet Gates |
Drum - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
19 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Arkansas River At Catlin Dam
|
-999cfs |
Catlin Canal At Mile 0.1
|
0cfs |
Apishapa River Near Fowler
|
12cfs |
Timpas Creek At Mouth Near Swink
|
20cfs |
Crooked Arroyo Near Swink
|
2cfs |
Arkansas River At La Junta
|
81cfs |
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.
Ordway Town Res. Cell No. 2
Meredith Reservoir (Content)
Lake Henry
Anticline Lake
Olney Springs