Watson Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Watson Lake, located in Larimer County, Colorado, is a state-regulated Earth dam built in 1964 along the Cache La Poudre River.


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Summary

Serving primarily as a Fish and Wildlife Pond, this reservoir boasts a capacity of 532 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 45 acres. With a maximum discharge of 39 cubic feet per second and no spillway, Watson Lake's hazard potential is categorized as low, with a satisfactory condition assessment as of November 2020.

Despite its modest size, Watson Lake plays a crucial role in supporting local fish and wildlife populations while also providing recreational opportunities for visitors. Managed by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, this dam undergoes regular inspections and has a documented emergency action plan in place. With a risk assessment rating of 2 (considered high), efforts are continuously made to ensure the safety and integrity of this essential water resource.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Watson Lake stands as a testament to the delicate balance between human development and environmental conservation. As a key feature along the Cache La Poudre River, this Earth dam not only supports biodiversity but also serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness between water management, wildlife habitat, and recreational activities in Colorado's diverse landscape.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

4000

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

CACHE LA POUDRE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

45

Hydraulic Height

24

Nid Storage

532

Structural Height

29

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

29
       
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.