Box Elder #3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Box Elder #3, also known as Smith Reservoir, is a privately owned dam located in Larimer County, Colorado.


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Summary

Built in 1890 for irrigation purposes, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and stretches for 1030 feet, with a storage capacity of 792 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has a high risk assessment due to its condition not being rated and lacking emergency action preparedness measures.

The reservoir is situated along the Boxelder Creek, providing water for agricultural use in the surrounding area. The dam has not undergone any modifications in recent years, with its last inspection dating back to July 1990. The lack of updated emergency action plans and risk management measures highlight the need for increased attention to ensure the safety and sustainability of this water resource.

With the potential for climate change impacts on water resources, it is crucial for stakeholders to prioritize the inspection, maintenance, and emergency preparedness of dams like Box Elder #3. Collaboration between private owners, state regulators, and federal agencies is essential to mitigate risks and ensure the long-term viability of this vital water infrastructure in Colorado.

Year Completed

1890

Dam Length

1030

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

BOXELDER CR-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

55

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

792

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.