Baxter Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Baxter is a private water resource located in Longmont, Weld County, Colorado.


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Summary

This historic irrigation dam on the Little Thompson River was completed in 1878, serving the primary purpose of irrigation and water supply. With a dam height of 8 feet and a length of 510 feet, Baxter has a storage capacity of 241 acre-feet and a surface area of 41 acres. It is regulated by the Colorado Division of Water Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place.

Despite its age, Baxter has been well-maintained and is currently classified as having a low hazard potential with a satisfactory condition assessment. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 20 feet and a maximum discharge of 350 cubic feet per second. The risk assessment for the site is moderate, indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and management of potential hazards. The last inspection was conducted in May 2011, with a frequency of every 6 years.

As a vital component of the local water infrastructure, Baxter plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the region. Its strategic location on the Little Thompson River ensures a reliable water supply for irrigation purposes. With its historical significance and continued functionality, Baxter serves as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Year Completed

1878

Dam Length

510

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

LITTLE THOMPSON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

41

Hydraulic Height

8

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

241

Structural Height

8

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

8
       
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.