Rifle Gap
Key Takeaway
Rifle Gap 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 | 157 ft (taller than 98% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 1,450 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 13.6K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 12.2K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 435 acres |
| Drainage Area | 142 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1966 (60 years old) |
| NID ID | CO01692 |
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
RECLAMATION
Federal Government
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Low Hazard 21 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Rifle Gap?
Rifle Gap 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 Rifle Gap?
Rifle Gap is owned by RECLAMATION (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Rifle Gap built?
Rifle Gap 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 Rifle Gap?
Rifle Gap serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Rifle Gap?
Rifle Gap has a dam height of 157 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 Rifle Gap last inspected?
Rifle Gap was last inspected on July 24, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.