Upper Highline
Key Takeaway
Upper Highline is classified as high hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1967 and is 59 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 | 87 ft (taller than 94.8% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 1,440 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 7.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 3.4K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 155 acres |
| Drainage Area | 13 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,600 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1967 (59 years old) |
| NID ID | CO00831 |
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 (TAYLOR, MARGARET)
State Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Upper Highline?
Upper Highline 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 Upper Highline?
Upper Highline is owned by COLORADO PARKS AND WILDLIFE (TAYLOR, MARGARET) (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Upper Highline built?
Upper Highline was completed in 1967, making it 59 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 Upper Highline?
Upper Highline serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Upper Highline?
Upper Highline has a dam height of 87 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 Upper Highline last inspected?
Upper Highline was last inspected on September 7, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.