Adobe Creek
Key Takeaway
Adobe Creek is classified as high hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1904 and is 122 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 32 ft (taller than 70.4% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 7,375 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 122.4K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 81.6K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 5,094 acres |
| Drainage Area | 53 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 72,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1904 (122 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2019 |
| NID ID | CO00515 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
FORT LYON CANAL CO.
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Adobe Creek?
Adobe Creek is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Adobe Creek?
Adobe Creek is owned by FORT LYON CANAL CO. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Adobe Creek built?
Adobe Creek was completed in 1904, making it 122 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 Adobe Creek?
Adobe Creek serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Adobe Creek?
Adobe Creek has a dam height of 32 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 Adobe Creek last inspected?
Adobe Creek was last inspected on May 13, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.