Panama No. 1 - South Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Panama No.


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Summary

1 - South, also known as Baller Lake or Swede Lake, is a private earth dam located in Boulder County, Colorado. Built in 1904 for irrigation purposes, this dam stands at 16 feet high and spans 1200 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 6979 acre-feet. Situated along Boulder Creek, this dam serves not only for irrigation but also for recreation, providing a surface area of 370 acres for outdoor activities.

Managed by the Colorado Division of Water Resources, Panama No. 1 - South has a significant hazard potential due to its location and design, but its condition is assessed as satisfactory. Regular inspections are conducted, with the last one taking place in June 2020. The dam's spillway, an uncontrolled type with a width of 426 feet, helps regulate water levels during high flow events, ensuring the safety of downstream areas. Despite its age, this dam continues to play a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

With a moderate risk level assigned to it, Panama No. 1 - South remains a key infrastructure for water supply and recreational purposes in the area. As climate change impacts water resources, the proper management and maintenance of such dams become increasingly important. The owners and regulatory agencies are actively involved in ensuring the safety and functionality of this dam, reflecting a commitment to sustainable water resource practices in the face of evolving climate challenges.

Year Completed

1904

Dam Length

1200

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

BOULDER CREEK-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

370

Hydraulic Height

16

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

6979

Structural Height

16

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

16
       
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.