Point of Rocks
Key Takeaway
Point of Rocks 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 | 60 ft (taller than 91.3% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 5,080 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 113.6K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 74.6K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 2,880 acres |
| Drainage Area | 370 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 8,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1948 (78 years old) |
| NID ID | CO00384 |
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
NORTH STERLING IRRIGATION DISTRICT (YAHN, JIM)
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Point of Rocks?
Point of Rocks 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 Point of Rocks?
Point of Rocks is owned by NORTH STERLING IRRIGATION DISTRICT (YAHN, JIM) (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Point of Rocks built?
Point of Rocks 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 Point of Rocks?
Point of Rocks 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 Point of Rocks?
Point of Rocks has a dam height of 60 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 Point of Rocks last inspected?
Point of Rocks was last inspected on October 11, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.