Chapman

LITTLE OAK CREEK· Rio Blanco, Colorado· Built 1940· Earth· 34 ft tall
Significant Hazard Irrigation Private

Key Takeaway

Chapman is classified as significant hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1940 and is 86 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 34 ft (taller than 74.3% in CO)
Dam Length250 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage471 acre-ft
Normal Storage246 acre-ft
Surface Area22 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Max Discharge200 cfs
Year Completed1940 (86 years old)
NID IDCO02159

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: September 22, 2021
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DWR

Ownership

PRIMA RANCHES, LLC (GATES, VALERIE)

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Chapman?

Chapman 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 Chapman?

Chapman is owned by PRIMA RANCHES, LLC (GATES, VALERIE) (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Chapman built?

Chapman was completed in 1940, making it 86 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 Chapman?

Chapman serves the following purposes: Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Chapman?

Chapman has a dam height of 34 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 Chapman last inspected?

Chapman was last inspected on September 22, 2021. 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.