Westminster Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Westminster Lake, also known as Jim Baker Reservoir, is a captivating water resource located in Westminster, Colorado.


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Summary

This local government-owned lake serves as a crucial water supply source for the area, with a primary purpose of water supply and additional purposes of recreation. Completed in 1995, this earth dam structure stands at a height of 31 feet and has a storage capacity of 1196 acre-feet, providing a normal storage of 955 acre-feet.

The significant hazard potential of Westminster Lake is managed satisfactorily, with regular inspections and a condition assessment indicating satisfactory results as of November 2020. Despite its moderate risk assessment level, the dam's operation and maintenance meet regulatory standards, with state jurisdiction and permitting ensuring its safety and compliance. The spillway, with a width of 65 feet, is uncontrolled, allowing for the release of water when needed.

Surrounded by a surface area of 58 acres and situated along Clear Creek-OS, Westminster Lake offers a picturesque landscape for water and climate enthusiasts to explore. With its rock and soil foundations, this reservoir showcases the intersection of natural beauty and human engineering, providing a vital water resource while also offering recreational opportunities for the community. The presence of Westminster Lake highlights the importance of sustainable water management and climate resilience in the region.

Year Completed

1995

Dam Length

3290

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

CLEAR CREEK-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

58

Hydraulic Height

30

Nid Storage

1196

Structural Height

34

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

34
       
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.
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