Horseshoe Lake (East Dam) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Horseshoe Lake (East Dam) in Loveland, Colorado, stands as a testament to water resource management and climate adaptation with its primary purpose being irrigation.


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Summary

Completed in 1905, this earth dam plays a crucial role in providing water for agriculture while also offering recreational opportunities. The dam has a height of 35 feet and a storage capacity of 10,559 acre-feet, serving as a significant water storage facility in the region.

With a significant hazard potential due to its size and location, the dam is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity. The condition assessment in 2019 deemed it satisfactory, showing that proper maintenance and management measures are in place to mitigate risks. Its spillway, with a width of 1044 feet, is uncontrolled, allowing for effective discharge during high water events. The surrounding Big Thompson River provides a crucial source of water for the reservoir, highlighting the interconnectedness of water resources in the area.

Managed by private owners but regulated by the state, Horseshoe Lake (East Dam) exemplifies the collaborative effort needed to sustainably manage water resources in the face of changing climates. With its historical significance and modern adaptations, this dam serves as a vital component of the water infrastructure in Larimer County, Colorado. Its role in irrigation, recreation, and flood control showcases the multifaceted benefits of well-designed water resource systems in a rapidly evolving environment.

Year Completed

1905

Dam Length

1650

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

BIG THOMPSON RIVER-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

650

Hydraulic Height

27

Drainage Area

11

Nid Storage

10559

Structural Height

37

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

37
       
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.