Fossil Creek
Key Takeaway
Fossil Creek is classified as high hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1903 and is 123 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 | 42 ft (taller than 83.3% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 6,650 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 16.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 11.1K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 810 acres |
| Drainage Area | 28 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 88,100 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1903 (123 years old) |
| NID ID | CO01165 |
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
NORTH POUDRE IRR. CO. (MOEN, TAD)
Private
Nearby Dams
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Low Hazard 7 ftHorseshoe Lake (East Dam)
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Significant Hazard 35 ftFairport
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Significant Hazard 12 ftWarren Lake
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High Hazard 23 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Fossil Creek?
Fossil 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 Fossil Creek?
Fossil Creek is owned by NORTH POUDRE IRR. CO. (MOEN, TAD) (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Fossil Creek built?
Fossil Creek was completed in 1903, making it 123 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 Fossil Creek?
Fossil Creek 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 Fossil Creek?
Fossil Creek has a dam height of 42 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 Fossil Creek last inspected?
Fossil Creek was last inspected on October 14, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.