Long Draw Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Long Draw is a privately owned dam located in Larimer, Colorado, along the La Poudre Pass Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1975, this Earth type dam stands at a height of 84 feet and has a storage capacity of 14,200 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 10,900 acre-feet. The dam serves primarily for irrigation purposes, providing water for agricultural activities in the area.

With a drainage area of 8 square miles and a maximum discharge of 3,400 cubic feet per second, Long Draw plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. Despite its satisfactory condition assessment, the dam is classified as having a high hazard potential, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its safety and reliability. The dam does not have a spillway, and its risk assessment indicates a high level of risk (2) associated with its operations.

Managed by the Colorado state regulatory agency, DWR, Long Draw undergoes regular inspections and enforcement measures to uphold safety standards. Located in a picturesque setting near Fort Collins, this dam not only provides essential water resources for irrigation but also poses a significant engineering challenge due to its high hazard potential. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Long Draw serves as a fascinating example of the intricate balance between harnessing water for human use and managing the associated risks in a changing climate.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

1830

Dam Height

84

River Or Stream

LA POUDRE PASS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

335

Hydraulic Height

84

Drainage Area

8

Nid Storage

14200

Structural Height

88

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

88
       
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.