Wildhorse
Key Takeaway
Wildhorse is classified as high hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1920 and is 106 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. 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 | 20 ft (taller than 36.1% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 995 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 617 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 260 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 65 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3,120 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1920 (106 years old) |
| NID ID | CO01984 |
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
USDA FS
Federal Government
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Wildhorse?
Wildhorse 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 Wildhorse?
Wildhorse is owned by USDA FS (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Wildhorse built?
Wildhorse was completed in 1920, making it 106 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 Wildhorse?
Wildhorse 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 Wildhorse?
Wildhorse has a dam height of 20 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 Wildhorse last inspected?
Wildhorse was last inspected on March 26, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.