Highland #2 (North) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Highland #2 (North) is a privately owned irrigation reservoir located in Boulder, Colorado, near the Little Thompson River.


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Summary

Built in 1881, this earth dam stands at 37 feet tall and has a storage capacity of 4613 acre-feet. The reservoir serves multiple purposes including irrigation, fish and wildlife habitat, and recreation, making it a vital resource for the local community.

With a significant hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, Highland #2 (North) is regularly inspected and maintained by the Colorado Division of Water Resources. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and has a maximum discharge capacity of 1500 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, the reservoir continues to provide essential water resources while also managing the associated risks effectively.

As a key feature of the local water infrastructure, Highland #2 (North) plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in the region. With its historical significance and ongoing importance for irrigation and recreation, this dam serves as a reminder of the vital connection between water resources and climate resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1881

Dam Length

5250

Dam Height

37

River Or Stream

LITTLE THOMPSON RIVER-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

178

Hydraulic Height

35

Nid Storage

4613

Structural Height

41

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

41
       
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.