Howards Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Howards Lake in Weld, Colorado, is a privately owned reservoir designed for irrigation purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The earth dam, completed in 1920, stands at 18 feet high and spans 1800 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 506 acre-feet. The lake is situated on Owl Creek and is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and compliance.

Despite a low hazard potential, Howards Lake has an unsatisfactory condition assessment as of September 2013, indicating potential risks that need to be addressed. With a high risk assessment rating of 2, there may be challenges in managing and mitigating these risks effectively. While the reservoir does not have a spillway, it is important for the owners to stay vigilant and prioritize proper maintenance and emergency preparedness to ensure the safety and longevity of this vital water resource in the region.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Howards Lake offers a unique glimpse into the management and regulation of a small but important reservoir in Colorado. With its historical significance and ongoing irrigation use, the lake serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between water supply, infrastructure maintenance, and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climate conditions. As efforts continue to monitor and improve the condition of Howards Lake, it stands as a testament to the ongoing challenges and opportunities in sustainable water resource management in the region.

Year Completed

1920

Dam Length

1800

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

OWL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

36

Hydraulic Height

18

Nid Storage

506

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.