Windsor Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Windsor Lake, also known as Kern Reservoir, is a picturesque water body located in Weld County, Colorado.


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Summary

Built in 1904, this local government-owned reservoir serves primarily for irrigation purposes, but also offers recreational opportunities for the community. With a dam height of 11 feet and a storage capacity of 3990 acre-feet, Windsor Lake plays a crucial role in water management and supply in the region.

The reservoir, situated on the Cache La Poudre River, covers an area of 197 acres and has a drainage area of 4 square miles. With a spillway width of 210 feet and a maximum discharge of 1276 cubic feet per second, Windsor Lake has a high hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in satisfactory condition. Regular inspections and enforcement ensure the safety and integrity of the earth dam structure, contributing to the overall water resource management in the area.

Managed by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, Windsor Lake continues to be a vital water resource for the community of Windsor and surrounding areas. Its strategic location and functional design make it a key player in maintaining water supply for irrigation while also providing a recreational oasis for residents and visitors alike. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the data on Windsor Lake showcases the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1904

Dam Length

2250

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

CACHE LA POUDRE RIVER-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

197

Hydraulic Height

9

Drainage Area

4

Nid Storage

3990

Structural Height

11

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

11
       
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.