Bergen #5 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bergen #5, also known as Carter Lake, is a private-owned structure located in Jefferson County, Colorado.


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Summary

Completed in 1908, this dam stands at a height of 10 feet with a hydraulic height of 21 feet. Its primary purpose is for fire protection, stock, and as a small fish pond, providing a storage capacity of 121 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the S. Platte River-TR, serving as a vital resource for the local community.

Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, Bergen #5 is considered to have a high risk level, indicating the importance of proper risk management measures. The dam has not been inspected since 1988, highlighting the need for regular maintenance and assessment to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a maximum discharge of 550 cubic feet per second and a surface area of 20 acres, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the significance of structures like Bergen #5 in maintaining water supply and mitigating potential risks. By staying informed about the condition and management of such dams, we can contribute to the preservation of water resources and the protection of communities against potential hazards.

Year Completed

1908

Dam Length

780

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

S. PLATTE RIVER-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20

Hydraulic Height

21

Nid Storage

121

Structural Height

21

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

21
       
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.