Boyd Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Boyd Lake, located in Larimer County, Colorado, is a private water resource managed by the state regulatory agency, Colorado Department of Water Resources (DWR).


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Summary

Built in 1900, this Earth dam stands at a height of 40 feet and serves multiple purposes including fish and wildlife pond, irrigation, recreation, and water supply. With a normal storage capacity of 48,871 acre-feet and a surface area of 1,747 acres, Boyd Lake is a popular destination for water and climate enthusiasts.

The dam's spillway, with a width of 1,298 feet, is uncontrolled, allowing for a maximum discharge of 42,700 cubic feet per second. Despite its high hazard potential, Boyd Lake is currently in satisfactory condition as per the last inspection conducted in July 2020. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam has not been modified in recent years and is equipped to handle potential emergencies. Overall, Boyd Lake presents an intriguing blend of water management, recreational opportunities, and environmental conservation for enthusiasts to explore and appreciate.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

10729

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

BIG THOMPSON RIVER-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1747

Hydraulic Height

40

Drainage Area

17

Nid Storage

59981

Structural Height

40

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

40
       
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.