Clover Basin Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in the picturesque city of Longmont, Colorado, Clover Basin is a privately-owned irrigation structure that stands as a testament to early 20th-century engineering.


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Summary

Built in 1910, this Earth-type dam on Dry Creek-Tr serves multiple purposes including irrigation and recreation, making it a vital resource for the local community. With a dam height of 34 feet and a storage capacity of 984 acre-feet, Clover Basin plays a crucial role in water management in Boulder County.

Despite its age, Clover Basin remains in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in May 2020, with a high hazard potential due to its location and structure. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and a maximum discharge capacity of 12,150 cubic feet per second, ensuring effective flood control in the area. With its historical significance and ongoing operational importance, Clover Basin serves as a symbol of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the preservation and maintenance of structures like Clover Basin are crucial for ensuring a resilient and sustainable water supply for future generations. With its moderate risk assessment and regular inspections, Clover Basin stands as a testament to the importance of proactive risk management in safeguarding our water resources against the challenges of a changing climate. As we continue to face environmental uncertainties, Clover Basin serves as a reminder of the vital role that responsible water management plays in adapting to a rapidly changing world.

Year Completed

1910

Dam Length

725

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

DRY CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

62

Hydraulic Height

34

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

984

Structural Height

39

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

39
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.