Big Creek #1
Key Takeaway
Big Creek #1 is classified as high hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1893 and is 133 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 | 23 ft (taller than 47.2% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 514 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 22 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 764 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 63 acres |
| Drainage Area | 11 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,188 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1893 (133 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1993 |
| NID ID | CO00935 |
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
BIG CREEK RESERVOIR COMPANY (YOUNG - PRESIDENT, HA
Private
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Low Hazard 19 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Big Creek #1?
Big Creek #1 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 Big Creek #1?
Big Creek #1 is owned by BIG CREEK RESERVOIR COMPANY (YOUNG - PRESIDENT, HA (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Big Creek #1 built?
Big Creek #1 was completed in 1893, making it 133 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 Big Creek #1?
Big Creek #1 serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Big Creek #1?
Big Creek #1 has a dam height of 23 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 Big Creek #1 last inspected?
Big Creek #1 was last inspected on October 19, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.