Oklahoma Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Weld County, Colorado, Oklahoma Lake, also known as Big Cut Lateral, is a privately-owned reservoir used primarily for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

With a dam height of 18 feet and a capacity of 493 acre-feet, it serves as a vital water source for agricultural activities in the region. The lake was completed in 1891 and is regulated by the Colorado Division of Water Resources, ensuring its proper maintenance and operation.

Aside from irrigation, Oklahoma Lake also offers recreational opportunities for the local community, covering a surface area of 40 acres and nestled along the Big Thompson River. Its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment make it a safe and reliable water resource for both irrigation and leisure activities. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and has a maximum discharge capacity of 150 cubic feet per second.

Despite being a modest-sized reservoir, Oklahoma Lake plays a crucial role in supporting the agricultural sector in Weld County and contributes to the overall water management efforts in the region. With its historical significance dating back over a century, this reservoir continues to be a valuable asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in sustainable water use and management practices.

Year Completed

1891

Dam Length

92

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

BIG THOMPSON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

40

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

493

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

18
       
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.