Smith Irrigation

TODD CREEK· Adams, Colorado· Built 1908· Earth· 22 ft tall

Key Takeaway

Smith Irrigation is classified as high hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1908 and is 118 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 22 ft (taller than 43.8% in CO)
Dam Length1,073 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage429 acre-ft
Normal Storage257 acre-ft
Surface Area34 acres
Drainage Area2 sq mi
Max Discharge3,378 cfs
Year Completed1908 (118 years old)
NID IDCO00100

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: April 20, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DWR

Ownership

TODD CREEK VILLAGE METRO DISTRICT

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Smith Irrigation?

Smith Irrigation 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 Smith Irrigation?

Smith Irrigation is owned by TODD CREEK VILLAGE METRO DISTRICT (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Smith Irrigation built?

Smith Irrigation was completed in 1908, making it 118 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 Smith Irrigation?

Smith Irrigation serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Smith Irrigation?

Smith Irrigation has a dam height of 22 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 Smith Irrigation last inspected?

Smith Irrigation was last inspected on April 20, 2022. 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.