Horse Creek
Key Takeaway
Horse Creek is classified as high hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1910 and is 116 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 | 39 ft (taller than 80.5% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 4,800 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 29.7K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 15.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 712 acres |
| Drainage Area | 26 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 49,700 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1910 (116 years old) |
| NID ID | CO00012 |
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
HENRYLYN IRRIGATION DISTRICT
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Horse Creek?
Horse 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 Horse Creek?
Horse Creek is owned by HENRYLYN IRRIGATION DISTRICT (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Horse Creek built?
Horse Creek was completed in 1910, making it 116 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 Horse Creek?
Horse 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 Horse Creek?
Horse Creek has a dam height of 39 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 Horse Creek last inspected?
Horse Creek was last inspected on June 22, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.