Peterson Lake in Larimer, Colorado, is a gravity dam completed in 1973 primarily for water supply purposes, serving both irrigation and domestic water needs in the area. With a height of 78 feet and a storage capacity of 1409 acre-feet, the dam stands as a crucial piece of infrastructure in the Cache La Poudre River watershed. Its high hazard potential is balanced by a satisfactory condition assessment, ensuring its reliability in providing water to the surrounding community.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Colorado Division of Water Resources, Peterson Lake's spillway, with a width of 425 feet, helps control water flow during periods of high discharge. The dam's rock foundation and multi-arch core types contribute to its structural integrity, while its uncontrolled spillway type ensures effective water release when needed. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the dam's last inspection in July 2020 deemed it to be in satisfactory condition, highlighting its importance in water management and supply in the region.

Located in Fort Collins and under the jurisdiction of the Sacramento District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Peterson Lake Dam serves as a vital resource for water storage and supply in the region. With a surface area of 55 acres and a drainage area of 2 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in a sustainable and effective manner. Its history of successful operation and maintenance, coupled with its strategic location in the Cache La Poudre River watershed, underscores the importance of Peterson Lake in ensuring reliable water access for agricultural and urban needs in Larimer County, Colorado.