Abbey Detention Basin

TRIBUTARY TO FOURMILE CR· Fremont, Colorado· Built 2005· Earth· 17 ft tall
Significant Hazard Flood Risk Reduction Local Government

Key Takeaway

Abbey Detention Basin is classified as significant hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 2005 and is 21 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 17 ft (taller than 26.3% in CO)
Dam Length2,560 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage86 acre-ft
Normal Storage63 acre-ft
Surface Area7 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Max Discharge1,387 cfs
Year Completed2005 (21 years old)
NID IDCO02961

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: August 8, 2019
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DWR

Ownership

CITY OF CANON CITY (KIM SWEARINGEN)

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Abbey Detention Basin?

Abbey Detention Basin is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Abbey Detention Basin?

Abbey Detention Basin is owned by CITY OF CANON CITY (KIM SWEARINGEN) (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Abbey Detention Basin built?

Abbey Detention Basin was completed in 2005, making it 21 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Abbey Detention Basin?

Abbey Detention Basin serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Abbey Detention Basin?

Abbey Detention Basin has a dam height of 17 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Abbey Detention Basin last inspected?

Abbey Detention Basin was last inspected on August 8, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.