Lake Canal #1, also known as Kern Lake, is a privately owned irrigation structure located in Windsor, Weld County, Colorado.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1898, this earth dam stands at a height of 8 feet with a length of 1500 feet, providing a storage capacity of 327 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Lake Canal #1 is for irrigation, drawing water from the Cache la Poudre River to support agricultural activities in the region.
Managed by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, Lake Canal #1 has a low hazard potential and is classified as being in satisfactory condition. The spillway is controlled with a width of 402 feet, allowing for controlled release of water in case of high inflows. Despite its age, the dam has a very high risk assessment rating due to its location and potential impact on downstream areas in the event of a failure.
The dam is regularly inspected every 6 years, with the last assessment conducted in June 2017. While it meets regulatory guidelines, ongoing risk management measures are essential to ensure the safety and integrity of Lake Canal #1 for continued water resource management in the region. Passionate water resource and climate enthusiasts will be intrigued by the historical significance and modern challenges faced by this essential irrigation structure.
Year Completed |
1898 |
Dam Length |
1500 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
CACHE LA POUDRE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
69 |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Nid Storage |
327 |
Structural Height |
8 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
8 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Missile Site Park
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Boyd Lake State Park
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South Bay - Horsetooth Reservoir
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Inlet Bay - Horsetooth Reservoir
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