Davis Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Davis is a privately-owned dam located in Boulder, Colorado, near the city of Longmont.


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Summary

Built in 1886, this Earth-type structure stands at a height of 9 feet and stretches 1200 feet in length, serving primarily for irrigation purposes along the Lykin Gulch-TR river or stream. With a storage capacity of 111 acre-feet and a surface area of 13 acres, Davis plays a crucial role in water management in the region.

Despite its low hazard potential, Davis has been deemed to have an unsatisfactory condition following its last inspection in 2013. The dam poses a moderate risk, indicating the need for careful monitoring and potential risk management measures. While it is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections, the structure's condition assessment calls for attention to ensure its continued functionality and safety for the surrounding community and environment.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the history and current status of dams in Colorado will find Davis to be a fascinating case study. From its construction over a century ago to its ongoing maintenance challenges, this privately-owned dam provides valuable insights into the intersection of water infrastructure, regulatory oversight, and environmental risk management in the region.

Year Completed

1886

Dam Length

1200

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

LYKIN GULCH-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13

Hydraulic Height

9

Nid Storage

111

Structural Height

9

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

9
       
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.