70 Ranch Reservoir Report
Nearby: Briscoe Lake Lost Creek #1
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
70 Ranch is a privately-owned irrigation reservoir located in Orchard, Weld County, Colorado.
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Summary
The dam, designed by Brad Hagen, was completed in 2019 and serves the primary purpose of irrigation. With a dam height of 47 feet and a storage capacity of 5990 acre-feet, the reservoir covers a surface area of 167 acres and has a maximum discharge of 688 cubic feet per second.
This off-stream reservoir is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. The dam is classified as low hazard potential and is in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in August 2019. While the risk assessment indicates a moderate risk level, the reservoir meets regulatory guidelines and has not undergone any significant modifications since its completion.
Overall, 70 Ranch is a well-maintained irrigation infrastructure essential for water management in the region. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find this reservoir's design and operational details intriguing, showcasing a blend of engineering expertise and environmental stewardship in Colorado's water infrastructure landscape.
Year Completed |
2019 |
Dam Length |
8200 |
Dam Height |
47 |
River Or Stream |
OFF-STREAM |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
167 |
Hydraulic Height |
47 |
Drainage Area |
3 |
Nid Storage |
5990 |
Structural Height |
50 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
50 |
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.
70 Ranch