Wildcat
Key Takeaway
Wildcat is classified as high hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1953 and is 73 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 | 75 ft (taller than 93.4% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 1,120 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.1K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 50 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,856 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1953 (73 years old) |
| NID ID | CO00685 |
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
WILDCAT RANCH ASSOCIATION (MIKE THOMAS)
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Wildcat?
Wildcat 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 Wildcat?
Wildcat is owned by WILDCAT RANCH ASSOCIATION (MIKE THOMAS) (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Wildcat built?
Wildcat was completed in 1953, making it 73 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 Wildcat?
Wildcat 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 Wildcat?
Wildcat has a dam height of 75 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 Wildcat last inspected?
Wildcat was last inspected on May 23, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.