North Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

North Lake, located in Las Animas, Colorado, is a captivating water resource known for its role in providing water supply to the local government.


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Summary

Constructed in 1963 by E.L. Shaw, this earth dam stands at a height of 72 feet, with a hydraulic height of 79 feet and a structural height of 94 feet. The dam's storage capacity is 4753 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 4214 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 104 acres and serving multiple purposes including fish and wildlife pond, recreation, and water supply.

With a high hazard potential and fair condition assessment, North Lake is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement activities to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled and has a spillway width of 3 feet, with a maximum discharge capacity of 65 cubic feet per second. Despite its moderate risk level, North Lake remains a vital water resource for the surrounding community, contributing to the conservation of local ecosystems and providing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

630

Dam Height

72

River Or Stream

COAL CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

104

Hydraulic Height

79

Nid Storage

4753

Structural Height

94

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

94
       
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.