Nakomis Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Nakomis Lake, also known as Mitchell Lake #5, is a private fish and wildlife pond located in Larimer County, Colorado.


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Summary

Managed by the state regulatory agency DWR, this earth dam structure was completed in 1920 and stands at a height of 18 feet with a length of 273 feet. The lake has a storage capacity of 122 acre-feet and serves multiple purposes including fish and wildlife habitat, recreation, and water supply.

With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, Nakomis Lake is a valuable resource for the local community. The lake covers a surface area of 15 acres and is fed by Columbine Creek, offering a serene environment for outdoor activities. Despite being privately owned, the lake is state-regulated and complies with inspection, enforcement, and permitting requirements to ensure its safety and functionality.

Nakomis Lake's moderate risk assessment indicates a need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to protect the surrounding area from potential inundation. With its picturesque setting and important role in supporting local wildlife, this water resource serves as a valuable asset in the region's ecosystem and highlights the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1920

Dam Length

273

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

COLUMBINE CR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

122

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

Low

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.