Cache La Poudre Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cache La Poudre, also known as Timnath Reservoir #2 Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Larimer County, Colorado.


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Summary

This earth dam was completed in 1977 and serves primarily for irrigation purposes, with additional benefits for recreation. The dam stands at a height of 43 feet, with a structural height of 60 feet and a length of 3100 feet, holding a maximum storage capacity of 16,200 acre-feet.

Situated on the Cache La Poudre River, this dam has a high hazard potential and is regulated by the Colorado Division of Water Resources. Despite its high risk profile, the condition assessment as of August 2020 remains satisfactory. The dam lacks a spillway but has a width of 833 feet, with a maximum discharge capacity of 34,441 cubic feet per second. With a drainage area of 20 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region and ensuring water supply for irrigation and recreational purposes.

Cache La Poudre is a significant infrastructure in the water management system of Colorado, providing essential services for the surrounding communities. As climate change impacts water resources, the maintenance and monitoring of dams like Cache La Poudre become increasingly important to ensure their safety and effectiveness in the face of evolving environmental conditions. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate sustainability can appreciate the role of Cache La Poudre in regulating water flow and supporting multiple uses while recognizing the need for ongoing risk management and maintenance to safeguard its integrity.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

3100

Dam Height

43

River Or Stream

CACHE LA POUDRE RIVER-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

612

Hydraulic Height

43

Drainage Area

20

Nid Storage

16200

Structural Height

60

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

60
       
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.