College #3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

College #3, also known as Brd of Agriculture #3 or College Lake, is a state-owned earth dam located in Larimer, Colorado.


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Summary

Built in 1919, this dam serves primarily for irrigation purposes with a storage capacity of 1461 acre-feet. Situated along the Cache La Poudre River, this dam supports various functions including fire protection, stock, small fish ponds, and fish and wildlife habitat.

With a height of 18 feet and a length of 1075 feet, College #3 has a spillway width of 231 feet and a maximum discharge of 2976 cubic feet per second. Its hazard potential is classified as high, though the dam's condition has been assessed as satisfactory. Regular inspections and maintenance ensure the dam's reliability and safety, with the last inspection occurring in September 2020. Despite moderate risks associated with its operation, College #3 continues to play a vital role in water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

As a key infrastructure within the state-regulated water system, College #3 underscores the importance of effective governance and management in ensuring water security and mitigating potential hazards. With its historical significance and ongoing role in supporting agriculture and ecosystems, this dam stands as a testament to the intersection of water resources, climate adaptation, and sustainable development in Colorado's landscape.

Year Completed

1919

Dam Length

1075

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

CACHE LA POUDRE-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

71

Hydraulic Height

18

Nid Storage

1461

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

High

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.