Sylvan
Key Takeaway
Sylvan is classified as high hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1910 and is 116 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 | 40 ft (taller than 81.3% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 550 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 835 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 76 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 225 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1910 (116 years old) |
| NID ID | CO02126 |
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
SHAW, PAT
Private
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Low Hazard 38 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Sylvan?
Sylvan 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 Sylvan?
Sylvan is owned by SHAW, PAT (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Sylvan built?
Sylvan was completed in 1910, making it 116 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 Sylvan?
Sylvan 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 Sylvan?
Sylvan has a dam height of 40 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 Sylvan last inspected?
Sylvan was last inspected on July 1, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.