Windy Gap
Key Takeaway
Windy Gap is classified as significant hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1985 and is 41 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 25 ft (taller than 53.1% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 4,955 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.6K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 445 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 108 acres |
| Drainage Area | 773 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 46,720 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1985 (41 years old) |
| NID ID | CO02593 |
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
NORTHERN COLORADO WATER CONSERVANCY DISTRICT (FRIA
Local Government
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What is the hazard classification of Windy Gap?
Windy Gap 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 Windy Gap?
Windy Gap is owned by NORTHERN COLORADO WATER CONSERVANCY DISTRICT (FRIA (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Windy Gap built?
Windy Gap was completed in 1985, making it 41 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 Windy Gap?
Windy Gap serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Windy Gap?
Windy Gap has a dam height of 25 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 Windy Gap last inspected?
Windy Gap was last inspected on July 20, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.