Greeley Lake West Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Greeley Lake West, also known as Sanborn Lake, is a significant water resource in Weld County, Colorado.


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Summary

Owned and regulated by the local government, this dam serves primarily for irrigation purposes, but also contributes to flood risk reduction and recreation. Completed in 1979, this earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet and spans a length of 1110 feet, with a storage capacity of 277 acre-feet. The dam is located on the Cache La Poudre River-TR, providing vital water management infrastructure for the area.

With a significant hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Greeley Lake West remains a crucial piece of infrastructure that requires regular inspections and maintenance. The dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway, outlet gates, and a satisfactory condition assessment as of May 2019. The surrounding area benefits from the normal storage capacity of 56 acre-feet and a surface area of 9 acres, ensuring reliable water supply for irrigation and recreational activities. With its strategic location and design, Greeley Lake West plays a pivotal role in water resource management in the region.

As a key component of the water management system in Weld County, Greeley Lake West is a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts. The dam's presence on the Cache La Poudre River-TR underscores its importance in regulating water flow, mitigating flood risks, and supporting agricultural activities in the area. With its rich history dating back to 1979, this earth dam continues to serve the community, highlighting the interconnectedness between water resources, climate resilience, and sustainable development in Colorado.

Year Completed

1979

Dam Length

1110

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

CACHE LA POUDRE RIVER-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Hydraulic Height

23

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

277

Structural Height

23

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 0

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

23
       
Seasonal Comparison

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Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.