Gold Lake #3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Gold Lake #3 is a private fish and wildlife pond located in Boulder, Colorado, with a primary purpose of supporting fish and wildlife habitats.


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Summary

Constructed in 1879, this earth dam structure stands at a height of 9 feet and has a storage capacity of 587 acre-feet, providing essential water resources for the surrounding area. The dam, with a length of 168 feet and a spillway width of 16 feet, is regulated by the state of Colorado and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its satisfactory condition.

Situated along the Bell Gulch river, Gold Lake #3 covers a surface area of 34 acres and plays a significant role in irrigation and recreational activities in the region. Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is moderate, indicating a level 3 risk. With a history dating back over a century, this water resource continues to be a vital component of the local ecosystem, providing essential support for aquatic life and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Gold Lake #3 serves as a fascinating example of sustainable water management and conservation efforts in a changing climate.

Year Completed

1879

Dam Length

168

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

BELL GULCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

34

Hydraulic Height

9

Nid Storage

587

Structural Height

9

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

9
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.