Henry's Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Henry's Lake, located in Jefferson County, Colorado, is a captivating water resource that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The lake, completed in 1972, boasts an earth dam standing at 12 feet tall with a length of 1380 feet, offering a storage capacity of 170 acre-feet. With a surface area of 25 acres and a maximum discharge of 950 cubic feet per second, Henry's Lake provides a picturesque setting for water and climate enthusiasts alike.

Managed by the Department of Water Resources in Colorado, Henry's Lake is regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure safety and compliance with state standards. The dam has a low hazard potential and is in fair condition as of the last assessment in 2015. Despite the moderate risk assessment, the lake remains a popular destination for outdoor activities, attracting visitors to its tranquil waters and scenic surroundings. With its uncontrolled spillway and unique location near Bear Creek, Henry's Lake offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers seeking to connect with Colorado's diverse landscape.

The surrounding area of Henry's Lake, situated in the city of Lakewood, is overseen by federal agencies and enjoys support for its maintenance and operations. Despite its modest drainage area and recreational focus, the lake remains an integral part of the local ecosystem, providing a source of enjoyment and relaxation for residents and visitors alike. As climate and water resource enthusiasts explore the region, Henry's Lake stands as a testament to the harmonious balance between human recreation and environmental stewardship in the heart of Colorado's natural beauty.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

1380

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

BEAR CREEK-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

25

Hydraulic Height

12

Nid Storage

170

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
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.