Loveland Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Loveland Lake, located in Larimer County, Colorado, is a privately owned water resource that serves primarily for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1905, this Earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 2900 acre-feet. The lake covers a surface area of 168 acres and has a drainage area of 1 square mile, with the Big Thompson River running nearby.

With its significant hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Loveland Lake is closely regulated and inspected by the Colorado Department of Water Resources. The dam's condition was last assessed as satisfactory in October 2019, with regular inspections scheduled every two years. In case of emergencies, there is a need for an updated Emergency Action Plan to ensure the safety of surrounding areas.

Despite its age, Loveland Lake continues to provide essential water resources for irrigation in the region. Its uncontrolled spillway and satisfactory condition make it a crucial asset for managing water flow in the area. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Loveland Lake stands as a historical landmark that exemplifies the importance of proper maintenance and regulation in safeguarding our valuable water sources.

Year Completed

1905

Dam Length

2800

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

BIG THOMPSON RIVER-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

168

Hydraulic Height

26

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

2900

Structural Height

30

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

30
       
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.