Summary
Built in 2007 by designer Hugh Lowham, this structure stands at a height of 39 feet, with a hydraulic height of 34 feet and a length of 351 feet. It has a storage capacity of 49 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 3.34 acres, drawing water from the Morton Draw river or stream.
Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, Heartbreak Hill is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement, ensuring its safe operation and maintenance. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway system with a width of 60 feet and an outlet gate equipped with a single valve. With a fair condition assessment as of April 2020, the structure poses a moderate risk according to the Risk Assessment, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and management measures.
This picturesque dam not only provides essential water resources for fire protection, livestock, and small fish ponds but also serves as a vital habitat for fish and wildlife. As a focal point in the scenic landscape of Unnamed Ranch, Heartbreak Hill stands as a testament to responsible water management and conservation efforts in the region, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.
Year Completed |
2007 |
Dam Length |
351 |
Dam Height |
39 |
River Or Stream |
MORTON DRAW |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3.34 |
Hydraulic Height |
34 |
Drainage Area |
0.19 |
Nid Storage |
49 |
Structural Height |
39 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
39 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Wild Horse Creek Near Arvada
|
0cfs |
Powder River At Arvada
|
180cfs |
Clear Creek Near Arvada
|
256cfs |
Stonepile Creek At Mouth
|
3cfs |
Donkey Creek Near Gillette
|
0cfs |
Little Powder River Ab Dry Creek
|
1cfs |
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.
Heartbreak Hill