Woods Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Woods Lake, also known as Wood Lake or Tom Woods Reservoir, is a private water resource located in Weld County, Colorado.


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Summary

Completed in 1892, this Earth dam stands at 26 feet high and has a storage capacity of 3,623 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Woods Lake is irrigation, but it also serves as a recreational area and water supply source.

This reservoir, situated along the Cache La Poudre River, covers a surface area of 209 acres and has a maximum discharge capacity of 9,146 cubic feet per second. Despite its significant hazard potential, Woods Lake is currently assessed as being in satisfactory condition. The dam is regularly inspected, with the last assessment taking place in November 2019, ensuring its safety and adherence to state regulatory standards.

Woods Lake, with its rich history and vital role in water management, is a key asset in the region. As a popular spot for irrigation, recreation, and water supply, this reservoir continues to play a crucial role in sustaining water resources in Weld County, Colorado. Its strategic location and solid infrastructure make it a valuable resource for both local communities and environmental enthusiasts interested in water resource management and climate resilience.

Year Completed

1892

Dam Length

550

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

CACHE LA POUDRE R-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

209

Hydraulic Height

26

Drainage Area

4

Nid Storage

3623

Structural Height

26

Outlet Gates

Vertical Lift

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

26
       
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.