Cabin Creek Lower
Key Takeaway
Cabin Creek Lower is classified as high hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1967 and is 59 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. 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 | 95 ft (taller than 95.7% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 1,195 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 2.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.8K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 52 acres |
| Drainage Area | 15 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 12,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1967 (59 years old) |
| NID ID | CO01240 |
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
Public Service Company of Colorado
Public Utility
Nearby Dams
Cabin Creek Upper
Clear Creek, CO
High Hazard 210 ftClear Lake
Clear Creek, CO
High Hazard 19 ftGreen Lake
Clear Creek, CO
Significant Hazard 8 ftGeorgetown Forebay
Clear Creek, CO
Low Hazard 21 ftGeorgetown
Clear Creek, CO
High Hazard 13 ftSilver Dollar
Clear Creek, CO
Low Hazard 35 ftMurray
Clear Creek, CO
Low Hazard 11 ftAltura
Clear Creek, CO
Low Hazard 21 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Cabin Creek Lower?
Cabin Creek Lower 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 Cabin Creek Lower?
Cabin Creek Lower is owned by Public Service Company of Colorado (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Cabin Creek Lower built?
Cabin Creek Lower was completed in 1967, making it 59 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 Cabin Creek Lower?
Cabin Creek Lower serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Cabin Creek Lower?
Cabin Creek Lower has a dam height of 95 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 Cabin Creek Lower last inspected?
Cabin Creek Lower was last inspected on June 7, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.