Cottonwood #4
Key Takeaway
Cottonwood #4 is classified as high hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1896 and is 130 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 | 17 ft (taller than 26.3% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 288 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 541 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 372 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 42 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 650 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1896 (130 years old) |
| NID ID | CO01756 |
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
COTTONWOOD RES COMPANY (CURRIER, PRESIDENT, CARLYL
Private
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High Hazard 31 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Cottonwood #4?
Cottonwood #4 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 Cottonwood #4?
Cottonwood #4 is owned by COTTONWOOD RES COMPANY (CURRIER, PRESIDENT, CARLYL (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Cottonwood #4 built?
Cottonwood #4 was completed in 1896, making it 130 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 Cottonwood #4?
Cottonwood #4 serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Cottonwood #4?
Cottonwood #4 has a dam height of 17 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 Cottonwood #4 last inspected?
Cottonwood #4 was last inspected on October 20, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.