Gold Lake #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Gold Lake #1 in Boulder, Colorado, is a privately owned Earth dam constructed in 1879 for the primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond.


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Summary

With a dam height of 24 feet and a storage capacity of 587 acre-feet, this reservoir covers a surface area of 34 acres and is fed by the Bell Gulch stream. The dam has a significant hazard potential and is inspected every two years, with the last assessment conducted in October 2017, yielding a satisfactory condition rating.

Managed by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, Gold Lake #1 offers recreational opportunities in addition to its irrigation and wildlife preservation functions. Located in Longmont, the reservoir supports a diverse ecosystem and plays a vital role in the local water supply. The spillway is uncontrolled, with a width of 16 feet to manage a maximum discharge of 430 cubic feet per second. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, emphasizing the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued safety and functionality.

Gold Lake #1 stands as a historic water resource in the region, contributing to the conservation efforts and recreational enjoyment of the surrounding area. With its rich heritage dating back over a century, this reservoir serves as a valuable asset for both wildlife and the community. As climate change impacts water resources worldwide, the proper management and upkeep of structures like Gold Lake #1 become increasingly crucial to ensure the resilience and sustainability of our water systems in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1879

Dam Length

225

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

BELL GULCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

34

Hydraulic Height

24

Nid Storage

587

Structural Height

24

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

24
       
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.