Horsetooth
Key Takeaway
Horsetooth is classified as high hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1948 and is 78 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 | 155 ft (taller than 97.9% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 1,840 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 170.4K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 156.7K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 2,040 acres |
| Drainage Area | 17 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1948 (78 years old) |
| NID ID | CO01659 |
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
RECLAMATION
Federal Government
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Significant Hazard 18 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Horsetooth?
Horsetooth 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 Horsetooth?
Horsetooth is owned by RECLAMATION (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Horsetooth built?
Horsetooth was completed in 1948, making it 78 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 Horsetooth?
Horsetooth 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 Horsetooth?
Horsetooth has a dam height of 155 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 Horsetooth last inspected?
Horsetooth was last inspected on October 29, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.