Georgetown Forebay
Key Takeaway
Georgetown Forebay is classified as low hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1902 and is 124 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 21 ft (taller than 40.7% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 181 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Normal Storage | 810 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 26 acres |
| Max Discharge | 1,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1902 (124 years old) |
| NID ID | CO02379 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
Public Service Company of Colorado
Public Utility
Nearby Dams
Green Lake
Clear Creek, CO
Significant Hazard 8 ftClear Lake
Clear Creek, CO
High Hazard 19 ftCabin Creek Lower
Clear Creek, CO
High Hazard 95 ftCabin Creek Upper
Clear Creek, CO
High Hazard 210 ftGeorgetown
Clear Creek, CO
High Hazard 13 ftGuanella
Clear Creek, CO
High Hazard 34 ftIdaho Springs
Clear Creek, CO
High Hazard 28 ftSilver Dollar
Clear Creek, CO
Low Hazard 35 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Georgetown Forebay?
Georgetown Forebay 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 Georgetown Forebay?
Georgetown Forebay is owned by Public Service Company of Colorado (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Georgetown Forebay built?
Georgetown Forebay was completed in 1902, making it 124 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 Georgetown Forebay?
Georgetown Forebay serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Georgetown Forebay?
Georgetown Forebay has a dam height of 21 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 Georgetown Forebay last inspected?
Georgetown Forebay was last inspected on August 30, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.