Goose Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Goose Lake, also known as Oval, is a picturesque water resource located in Boulder, Colorado, managed by the local government.


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Summary

This Timber Crib dam, completed in 1908, stands at a height of 32 feet and has a storage capacity of 1170 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of water supply, Goose Lake plays a crucial role in providing water to the surrounding area.

The dam has undergone several modifications over the years to enhance its structural and hydraulic integrity, with the most recent upgrades in 1999. Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the condition of the dam is deemed satisfactory as of the last inspection in September 2019. In case of emergencies, a valve outlet gate is in place for effective water management and risk mitigation.

With a drainage area of 4 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 900 cubic feet per second, Goose Lake is a vital component of the local water infrastructure. Its moderate risk assessment level (3 out of 5) underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and reliability of this essential water resource for the community.

Years Modified

1984 - Structural, 1989 - Hydraulic, 1999 - Structural

Year Completed

1908

Dam Length

425

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

NORTH BOULDER CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Timber Crib

Surface Area

46

Hydraulic Height

32

Drainage Area

4

Nid Storage

1170

Structural Height

32

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

32
       
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.