Copeland

SOUTH PLATTE RIVER-OS· Adams, Colorado· Built 1898· Earth· 12 ft tall
Low Hazard Irrigation Water Supply Private

Key Takeaway

Copeland is classified as low hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1898 and is 128 years old. Its primary use is irrigation.

Physical Details

Dam Height 12 ft (taller than 11% in CO)
Dam Length1,500 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage114 acre-ft
Normal Storage73 acre-ft
Surface Area13 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Max Discharge285 cfs
Year Completed1898 (128 years old)
NID IDCO01243

Safety Information

Low Hazard

No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: April 5, 1995
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DWR

Ownership

UNITED WATER COMPANY (RANDY RHODES)

Private

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Kalcevic

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Niver Creek Detention

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South Tani Reservoir

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Westminster Lake

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Hidden Lake

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Badding

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Copeland?

Copeland is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Copeland?

Copeland is owned by UNITED WATER COMPANY (RANDY RHODES) (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Copeland built?

Copeland was completed in 1898, making it 128 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 Copeland?

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

How tall is Copeland?

Copeland has a dam height of 12 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 Copeland last inspected?

Copeland was last inspected on April 5, 1995. 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.