Swede Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Swede, also known as Swede Lake, is a local government-owned water resource located in Boulder, Colorado.


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Summary

This dam, completed in 1930 for irrigation purposes, stands at a height of 15 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 263 acre-feet. Situated on Dry Creek, Swede serves as a vital water source for the surrounding area, with a normal storage capacity of 205 acre-feet and a surface area of 26 acres.

With its primary purpose being irrigation, Swede Dam is primarily an earth dam with stone core types and a soil foundation. The dam has a hydraulic height of 12 feet and a structural height of 15 feet, with a length of 1506 feet. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Swede Dam is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement by the Colorado Department of Water Resources (DWR). In case of emergencies, the dam's risk assessment is moderate (3), indicating a need for ongoing risk management measures.

As a critical water infrastructure in the region, Swede's significance extends beyond its physical dimensions. Its role in supporting irrigation activities and water supply underscores the importance of proper maintenance and regulatory oversight to ensure the safety and reliability of this essential resource. With its historical legacy dating back to the early 20th century, Swede continues to play a crucial role in water management and climate resilience efforts in the Longmont area.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

1506

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

DRY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

26

Hydraulic Height

12

Nid Storage

263

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

15
       
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.