Windsor Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Windsor, located in Denver, Colorado, is home to the picturesque Windsor Lake, also known as Fairmont Lake.


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Summary

This private reservoir, constructed in 1892 by FUTURA ENGINEERING, serves primarily for irrigation purposes. With a dam height of 20 feet and a storage capacity of 735 acre-feet, Windsor Lake provides crucial water resources for the surrounding area.

Regulated by the Colorado Division of Water Resources, Windsor Lake has a spillway width of 68 feet and a maximum discharge of 1356 cubic feet per second. Despite its historical importance and structural modifications over the years, the dam's condition assessment in 2021 deemed it unsatisfactory, with a high hazard potential. Emergency action plans and risk management measures are essential for mitigating potential risks associated with this critical water infrastructure.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Windsor an intriguing case study, showcasing the intersection of historical engineering achievements, regulatory oversight, and the ongoing challenges of maintaining aging infrastructure in the face of evolving environmental risks. As Windsor continues to play a vital role in irrigation and water management in the region, proactive measures and investments in infrastructure resilience will be crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainability and safety of this essential water resource.

Years Modified

1902 - Mechanical, 1953 - Mechanical, 1960 - Structural, 1995 - Structural

Year Completed

1892

Dam Length

4752

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

WESTERLY CREEK-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

53

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

735

Structural Height

24

Outlet Gates

Valve

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

24
       
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.