South Platte Reservoir
Key Takeaway
South Platte Reservoir is classified as high hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 2007 and is 19 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 64 ft (taller than 92% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 7,700 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 7.4K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 6.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 152 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 13,045 cfs |
| Year Completed | 2007 (19 years old) |
| NID ID | CO02858 |
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
CENTENNIAL WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 20 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of South Platte Reservoir?
South Platte Reservoir 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 South Platte Reservoir?
South Platte Reservoir is owned by CENTENNIAL WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was South Platte Reservoir built?
South Platte Reservoir was completed in 2007, making it 19 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 South Platte Reservoir?
South Platte Reservoir serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is South Platte Reservoir?
South Platte Reservoir has a dam height of 64 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 South Platte Reservoir last inspected?
South Platte Reservoir was last inspected on March 31, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.