Highland #3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Highland #3, also known as Foster, is a privately owned dam located in La Salle, Weld County, Colorado.


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Summary

Built in 1881, this earth dam stands at a height of 21 feet and has a length of 1660 feet. The primary purpose of Highland #3 is irrigation, with additional recreational uses. The dam has a storage capacity of 2704 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 1670 acre-feet.

This significant dam on the St. Vrain Creek-OS is regulated and inspected by the Colorado Department of Water Resources. It has a spillway width of 100 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 1950 cubic feet per second. The dam is classified as having a significant hazard potential, but its condition assessment as of June 2019 is satisfactory. Highland #3 poses a moderate risk factor according to the data available, and it is crucial for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor its upkeep and safety measures for the surrounding community.

As one of the essential structures in the region for irrigation and recreation, Highland #3 serves a vital role in water management in Weld County, Colorado. Its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight make it an important site for those interested in the intersection of water resources and climate impacts on infrastructure. Monitoring its condition and risk assessment is key to ensuring the safety and efficiency of water usage in the area.

Year Completed

1881

Dam Length

1660

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

ST. VRAIN CREEK-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

173

Hydraulic Height

21

Nid Storage

2704

Structural Height

21

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

21
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.