Sand Creek Detention Basin No. 6 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Sand Creek Detention Basin No.
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Summary
6, located in Colorado Springs, is a crucial local government-owned structure designed by M&S Civil Consultants to mitigate flood risks along Sand Creek. Completed in 2014, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and serves primarily for flood risk reduction purposes. With a storage capacity of 96 acre-feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 1990 cubic feet per second, it offers significant protection to the surrounding area.
This detention basin spans 1160 feet in length and covers a surface area of 10 acres, providing vital flood control measures for the region. The dam's spillway, which is uncontrolled and 140 feet wide, ensures effective water management during heavy rainfall events. Despite its significant hazard potential, the condition assessment of Sand Creek Detention Basin No. 6 remains satisfactory, with inspections conducted every three years to maintain its structural integrity and functionality. Overall, this basin plays a crucial role in safeguarding the community against potential flood risks associated with Sand Creek.
With its strategic location and efficient design, Sand Creek Detention Basin No. 6 stands as a testament to proactive flood risk reduction efforts in El Paso County, Colorado. This structure, regulated by the Department of Water Resources, serves as a vital component of the local flood control system, offering moderate risk management measures and safeguarding the community against potential inundation events. As climate change intensifies the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, the importance of well-maintained detention basins like No. 6 in protecting water resources and climate resilience cannot be overstated.
Year Completed |
2014 |
Dam Length |
1160 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
SAND CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
96 |
Structural Height |
82 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
82 |
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.
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