Brainard Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Brainard Lake, located in Boulder, Colorado, is a picturesque water resource overseen by the USDA Forest Service.


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Summary

This recreational gem, completed in 1943, offers a serene escape for water and climate enthusiasts seeking solace in the great outdoors. With its primary purpose being recreation, Brainard Lake also serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond, enhancing its value as a haven for nature lovers.

Standing at a height of 15 feet and boasting a maximum storage capacity of 160 acre-feet, Brainard Lake plays a vital role in water management and conservation efforts in the region. The dam, constructed with rock and soil foundations, provides essential habitat for aquatic life while ensuring controlled water flow and discharge. Despite being uncontrolled, the spillway of Brainard Lake is designed to manage significant water levels and potential hazards, highlighting the importance of effective risk management measures in safeguarding this precious resource.

Amidst the lush surroundings of the South St Vrain Creek, Brainard Lake stands as a symbol of harmonious coexistence between mankind and nature. With its rich history, stunning landscape, and strategic design, this water resource is not only a source of recreation but also a testament to the importance of responsible water stewardship in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1943

Dam Length

130

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

SOUTH ST VRAIN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Other

Hydraulic Height

11

Drainage Area

9

Nid Storage

160

Structural Height

17

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

17
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds