Bonham-Wells
Key Takeaway
Bonham-Wells is classified as high hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1900 and is 126 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 | 38 ft (taller than 79.2% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 1,500 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.8K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.2K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 109 acres |
| Drainage Area | 8 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 7,351 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1900 (126 years old) |
| NID ID | CO01677 |
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 16 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Bonham-Wells?
Bonham-Wells 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 Bonham-Wells?
Bonham-Wells 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 Bonham-Wells built?
Bonham-Wells was completed in 1900, making it 126 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 Bonham-Wells?
Bonham-Wells serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Bonham-Wells?
Bonham-Wells has a dam height of 38 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 Bonham-Wells last inspected?
Bonham-Wells was last inspected on October 19, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.