Left Hand Park
Key Takeaway
Left Hand Park is classified as high hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1966 and is 60 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 | 50 ft (taller than 88.1% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 1,325 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 2.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.4K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 98 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 3,123 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1966 (60 years old) |
| NID ID | CO00176 |
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
LEFT HAND DITCH COMPANY (TERRY PLUMMER)
Private
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Low Hazard 28 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Left Hand Park?
Left Hand Park 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 Left Hand Park?
Left Hand Park is owned by LEFT HAND DITCH COMPANY (TERRY PLUMMER) (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Left Hand Park built?
Left Hand Park was completed in 1966, making it 60 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 Left Hand Park?
Left Hand Park serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Left Hand Park?
Left Hand Park has a dam height of 50 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 Left Hand Park last inspected?
Left Hand Park was last inspected on November 9, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.