Left Hand Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Left Hand, also known as Budds, is a vital water resource managed by local government authorities in Boulder, Colorado.


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Summary

This dam, primarily used for irrigation, was completed in 1900 and stands at a height of 10 feet, with a hydraulic height of 13 feet, serving the community with a normal storage capacity of 25 acre-feet. The dam spans 600 feet in length and is situated on Dry Creek-TR, contributing to the irrigation needs of the surrounding area.

Despite its importance, Left Hand has been deemed unsatisfactory in condition assessment, with a low hazard potential but a high risk assessment rating. The dam does not have a spillway type, but its spillway width is noted as 8 feet. The last inspection was conducted in September 2013, with an inspection frequency of 6 years. With a drainage area of 2 square miles and a maximum discharge of 42 cubic feet per second, Left Hand plays a crucial role in water management in the region.

It is crucial for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor the condition and maintenance of dams like Left Hand to ensure the safety and sustainability of water sources in the face of changing climate patterns. With its historical significance and ongoing role in irrigation and water management, Left Hand serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible stewardship of our water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

DRY CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

78

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

13
       
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.