Parker Basin #3
Key Takeaway
Parker Basin #3 is classified as high hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1899 and is 127 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 | 31 ft (taller than 68.6% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 600 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 579 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 400 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 40 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 4,122 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1899 (127 years old) |
| NID ID | CO00834 |
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
COTTONWOOD RES COMPANY (CURRIER, PRESIDENT, CARLYL
Private
Nearby Dams
Parker Basin #2
Mesa, CO
Low Hazard 18 ftCottonwood #5
Mesa, CO
High Hazard 22 ftParker Basin #1
Mesa, CO
Low Hazard 18 ftBlackman_*
Mesa, CO
Significant Hazard 22 ftKitson
Mesa, CO
High Hazard 18 ftFred Decamp
Mesa, CO
Low Hazard 14 ftCurrier
Mesa, CO
Significant Hazard 11 ftCottonwood #4
Mesa, CO
High Hazard 17 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Parker Basin #3?
Parker Basin #3 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 Parker Basin #3?
Parker Basin #3 is owned by COTTONWOOD RES COMPANY (CURRIER, PRESIDENT, CARLYL (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Parker Basin #3 built?
Parker Basin #3 was completed in 1899, making it 127 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 Parker Basin #3?
Parker Basin #3 serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Parker Basin #3?
Parker Basin #3 has a dam height of 31 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 Parker Basin #3 last inspected?
Parker Basin #3 was last inspected on October 21, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.