Thomas

THOMAS CREEK-OS· Pitkin, Colorado· Built 1938· Earth· 32 ft tall
Significant Hazard Irrigation Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Thomas is classified as significant hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1938 and is 88 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 32 ft (taller than 70.4% in CO)
Dam Length100 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage292 acre-ft
Normal Storage172 acre-ft
Surface Area15 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Max Discharge800 cfs
Year Completed1938 (88 years old)
NID IDCO01402

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: September 9, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DWR

Ownership

RANCH LAKE (CARNEY, IAN)

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Thomas?

Thomas is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Thomas?

Thomas is owned by RANCH LAKE (CARNEY, IAN) (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Thomas built?

Thomas was completed in 1938, making it 88 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 Thomas?

Thomas 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 Thomas?

Thomas has a dam height of 32 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 Thomas last inspected?

Thomas was last inspected on September 9, 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.