Two Buttes
Key Takeaway
Two Buttes is classified as high hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1908 and is 118 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 96 ft (taller than 95.8% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 1,864 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 40.7K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 22.2K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1,182 acres |
| Drainage Area | 470 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 46,200 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1908 (118 years old) |
| NID ID | CO00759 |
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
COLORADO PARKS AND WILDLIFE
State Government
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Two Buttes?
Two Buttes 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 Two Buttes?
Two Buttes is owned by COLORADO PARKS AND WILDLIFE (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Two Buttes built?
Two Buttes 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 Two Buttes?
Two Buttes serves the following purposes: Recreation, Fish And Wildlife Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Two Buttes?
Two Buttes has a dam height of 96 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 Two Buttes last inspected?
Two Buttes was last inspected on July 26, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.