Welsh
Key Takeaway
Welsh is classified as significant hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1915 and is 111 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 36 ft (taller than 77.6% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 500 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 216 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 142 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 13 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,098 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1915 (111 years old) |
| NID ID | CO00882 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
PINEY VALLEY RANCHES TRUST (LEARY, DANIEL)
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Welsh?
Welsh 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 Welsh?
Welsh is owned by PINEY VALLEY RANCHES TRUST (LEARY, DANIEL) (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Welsh built?
Welsh was completed in 1915, making it 111 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 Welsh?
Welsh 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 Welsh?
Welsh has a dam height of 36 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 Welsh last inspected?
Welsh was last inspected on July 13, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.