Handy
Key Takeaway
Handy is classified as high hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1915 and is 111 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 | 34 ft (taller than 74.3% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 5,360 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 9.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 6.7K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 474 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 790 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1915 (111 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1991 |
| NID ID | CO01769 |
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
HANDY DITCH CO. (JEREMY YOUNG)
Private
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High Hazard 52 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Handy?
Handy 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 Handy?
Handy is owned by HANDY DITCH CO. (JEREMY YOUNG) (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Handy built?
Handy was completed in 1915, making it 111 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 Handy?
Handy serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Fish And Wildlife Pond, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Handy?
Handy has a dam height of 34 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 Handy last inspected?
Handy was last inspected on July 15, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.