Bunkwater Retention Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Bunkwater Retention Dam, located in Mesa, Colorado, is a gravity-type structure with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.
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Summary
Built in 1960 by the Bureau of Land Management, this dam stands at a hydraulic height of 22 feet and a structural height of 26 feet, with a length of 531 feet. With a storage capacity of 30 acre-feet, it serves as a vital resource for managing water in the area.
The dam, situated along a tributary to Cottenwood Creek, has a low hazard potential and is assessed to be in fair condition. Despite being uncontrolled, it features an 18-foot spillway width to manage excess water flow. The Bureau of Land Management oversees the operations, funding, design, construction, regulation, and inspection of the dam, ensuring its efficient and safe functioning for the surrounding community and ecosystem.
With a moderate risk rating and a history of periodic inspections, Bunkwater Retention Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find this structure to be a fascinating example of sustainable infrastructure designed to meet the diverse needs of the area while minimizing potential risks.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
531 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBURARY TO COTTENWOOD CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
30 |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Drainage Area |
0.9 |
Nid Storage |
30 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
26 |
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.
Bunkwater Retention Dam