Little Hell Creek Diversion Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Little Hell Creek Diversion, located in Larimer County, Colorado, is a federal-owned hydroelectric structure on Little Hell Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1951, this rockfill dam stands at a height of 43 feet and serves multiple purposes, including hydroelectric power generation and irrigation. Managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, the dam has a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet and a low hazard potential.

Despite its age, the condition assessment of Little Hell Creek Diversion is currently listed as "Not Available," with a risk assessment rating of "High (2)." While it lacks certain safety features like a spillway, the dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures remain unknown. With an inspection frequency of 6 years, water resource and climate enthusiasts may be intrigued by the potential challenges and opportunities for improvement associated with this historic structure in Loveland, Colorado.

Year Completed

1951

Dam Length

220

Dam Height

43

River Or Stream

LITTLE HELL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Hydraulic Height

33

Nid Storage

100

Structural Height

43

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

43
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.