Boulder - North Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Boulder - North is a significant water resource located in Boulder, Colorado, along Dry Creek.


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Summary

This earth dam, completed in 1955, serves multiple purposes including irrigation, recreation, and water supply. With a dam height of 44 feet and a storage capacity of 17,700 acre-feet, it plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.

The dam has a spillway width of 1644 feet and a maximum discharge of 25,500 cfs, highlighting its importance in flood control and water management. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition is assessed as satisfactory, with regular inspections ensuring its safety and functionality. The risk assessment for Boulder - North indicates a moderate level of risk, emphasizing the need for vigilant risk management measures to ensure the safety and resilience of the dam.

Overall, Boulder - North stands as a vital infrastructure for water supply and management in the region, showcasing the intersection of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience. With its multi-purpose design and strategic location, this dam plays a critical role in meeting the water needs of the community while also addressing potential risks and ensuring the safety of downstream areas in case of emergencies. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Boulder - North serves as a fascinating example of integrated water management practices and the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the resilience of our water infrastructure.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

2652

Dam Height

44

River Or Stream

DRY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

684

Hydraulic Height

45

Drainage Area

14

Nid Storage

17700

Structural Height

51

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

51
       
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.