Copeland Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Located in Boulder, Colorado, the Copeland dam stands as a vital water resource, primarily serving the purpose of water supply.


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Summary

Built in 1934, this earth-type dam boasts a height of 24 feet and a length of 225 feet, with a storage capacity of 117 acre-feet. The dam, situated on the North St. Vrain Creek-OS, also caters to fish and wildlife pond, irrigation, and recreational purposes.

Maintained by the local government and regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, Copeland dam is inspected every 6 years, with a hazard potential rated as low and a fair condition assessment. The spillway, classified as uncontrolled, boasts a width of 5 feet, allowing for a maximum discharge of 200 cubic feet per second. Despite its moderate risk rating, the dam continues to play a crucial role in ensuring water supply for the surrounding area.

With its strategic location and essential functions, Copeland dam not only contributes to the local water supply but also supports various recreational and environmental activities. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the management and upkeep of structures like Copeland become increasingly crucial in ensuring a sustainable and resilient water supply system for the community.

Year Completed

1934

Dam Length

225

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

NORTH ST. VRAIN CREEK-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

24

Nid Storage

117

Structural Height

24

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

24
       
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.