Dry Creek
Key Takeaway
Dry Creek is classified as high hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 2007 and is 19 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 52 ft (taller than 89% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 4,817 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 10.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 8.9K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 315 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,964 cfs |
| Year Completed | 2007 (19 years old) |
| NID ID | CO02922 |
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
LITTLE THOMPSON WATER DISTRICT (KAUFFMAN, AMBER)
Public Utility
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High Hazard 214 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Dry Creek?
Dry Creek 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 Dry Creek?
Dry Creek is owned by LITTLE THOMPSON WATER DISTRICT (KAUFFMAN, AMBER) (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Dry Creek built?
Dry Creek was completed in 2007, making it 19 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 Dry Creek?
Dry Creek serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Dry Creek?
Dry Creek has a dam height of 52 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 Dry Creek last inspected?
Dry Creek was last inspected on October 5, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.