Leyden

LEYDEN CREEK· Jefferson, Colorado· Built 1902· Earth· 37 ft tall
High Hazard Flood Risk Reduction Recreation Not Listed

Key Takeaway

Leyden is classified as high hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1902 and is 124 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 37 ft (taller than 78.2% in CO)
Dam Length1,545 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage1.3K acre-ft
Normal Storage90 acre-ft
Surface Area19 acres
Drainage Area9 sq mi
Max Discharge35,170 cfs
Year Completed1902 (124 years old)
Year Modified2001
NID IDCO01216

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: February 18, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DWR

Ownership

Not Listed

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Leyden?

Leyden 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 Leyden?

Leyden is owned by information not available (Not Listed). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Leyden built?

Leyden 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 Leyden?

Leyden serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Leyden?

Leyden has a dam height of 37 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 Leyden last inspected?

Leyden was last inspected on February 18, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.