Seeley Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Seeley Lake in Weld, Colorado, is a private dam that serves primarily for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1902, this earth dam stands at 18 feet high and spans 1500 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 2062 acre-feet. Situated on the Cache La Poudre River, this reservoir covers an area of 260 acres and has a maximum discharge of 2000 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, the dam is in satisfactory condition with low hazard potential, making it a reliable water resource for the surrounding area.

Managed by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, Seeley Lake is subject to state regulations including permitting, inspection, and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam has a spillway width of 100 feet and a high-risk assessment rating, indicating the need for comprehensive risk management measures. With its strategic location near Greeley and the Cache La Poudre River, Seeley Lake provides not only irrigation water but also opportunities for recreational activities, making it a vital resource for both water supply and leisure in the region.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Seeley Lake an intriguing example of sustainable water management in Colorado. As a historic dam with a long-standing service record, this reservoir showcases the importance of proper maintenance and regulatory oversight in ensuring the safety and reliability of essential water infrastructure. With its scenic location and dual purpose for irrigation and recreation, Seeley Lake stands as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship in balancing water needs with ecosystem preservation.

Year Completed

1902

Dam Length

1500

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

CACHE LA POUDRE RIV-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

260

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

2062

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

18
       
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.