Carter Lake Dam No. 3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Carter Lake Dam No.


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Summary

3, located in Larimer, Colorado, is a key Federal-owned structure managed by the Bureau of Reclamation. Completed in 1951, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 55 feet and serves multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, and water supply for the region. With a storage capacity of 116,837 acre-feet and a surface area of 3,551 acres, the dam plays a vital role in water resource management in the area.

The dam's primary purpose is hydroelectric power generation, making it a valuable asset for sustainable energy production. Situated on the Big Thompson River OS, Carter Lake Dam No. 3 is regulated by the Bureau of Reclamation for state permitting, inspection, and enforcement. With a high hazard potential and risk assessment rating, the dam undergoes regular inspections and emergency action planning to ensure public safety and mitigate potential risks associated with its operations.

As a critical infrastructure for water management and energy production in Colorado, Carter Lake Dam No. 3 represents the intersection of environmental conservation and resource utilization. With its impressive height and storage capacity, the dam underscores the importance of sustainable practices in harnessing natural resources for the benefit of the community. The collaboration between Federal agencies and local authorities ensures the efficient operation and maintenance of this essential structure, contributing to the resilience of the region's water supply and energy infrastructure in the face of climate challenges.

Year Completed

1951

Dam Length

1425

Dam Height

55

River Or Stream

BIG THOMPSON RIVER OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3551

Hydraulic Height

45

Nid Storage

116837

Structural Height

55

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

55
       
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.