Lower Chinns
Key Takeaway
Lower Chinns is classified as high hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1934 and is 92 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 | 18 ft (taller than 29.2% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 440 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 170 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 108 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 12 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 560 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1934 (92 years old) |
| NID ID | CO00191 |
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
AGRICULTURAL DITCH & RESERVOIR COMPANY (ACKER, PET
Private
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High Hazard 34 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lower Chinns?
Lower Chinns 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 Lower Chinns?
Lower Chinns is owned by AGRICULTURAL DITCH & RESERVOIR COMPANY (ACKER, PET (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lower Chinns built?
Lower Chinns was completed in 1934, making it 92 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 Lower Chinns?
Lower Chinns serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Lower Chinns?
Lower Chinns has a dam height of 18 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 Lower Chinns last inspected?
Lower Chinns was last inspected on August 12, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.