Cripple Creek #3
Key Takeaway
Cripple Creek #3 is classified as significant hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1891 and is 135 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 40 ft (taller than 81.3% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 190 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 380 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 130 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 25 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 22,876 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1891 (135 years old) |
| NID ID | CO02160 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
CITY OF CRIPPLE CREEK (STEVE DICAMILLO)
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Cripple Creek #2
Teller, CO
Significant Hazard 51 ftVictor #2
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Significant Hazard 43 ftBison Park
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Significant Hazard 27 ftWilson
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Significant Hazard 20 ftBig Horn
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Low Hazard 21 ftBoehmer
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Low Hazard 36 ftPringtime
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Significant Hazard 44 ftMason
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High Hazard 50 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Cripple Creek #3?
Cripple Creek #3 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 Cripple Creek #3?
Cripple Creek #3 is owned by CITY OF CRIPPLE CREEK (STEVE DICAMILLO) (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Cripple Creek #3 built?
Cripple Creek #3 was completed in 1891, making it 135 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 Cripple Creek #3?
Cripple Creek #3 serves the following purposes: Water Supply, Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Cripple Creek #3?
Cripple Creek #3 has a dam height of 40 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 Cripple Creek #3 last inspected?
Cripple Creek #3 was last inspected on June 2, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.