Lambertson Lakes No. 3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Thornton, Colorado, Lambertson Lakes No.


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Summary

3 is a recreational dam that was completed in 1950. With a height of 27 feet and a storage capacity of 86 acre-feet, this earth dam serves the primary purpose of providing recreational opportunities for the local community. The dam has a low hazard potential and is currently in satisfactory condition, as assessed in April 2019.

Managed by the local government, Lambertson Lakes No. 3 is regulated and permitted by the Colorado Department of Water Resources. It is situated in Adams County and falls under the jurisdiction of the state. Despite its high risk assessment rating (2), the dam has not undergone any recent modifications and is inspected every six years to ensure its safety and functionality. With a surface area of 6 acres and a maximum discharge capacity of 2,223 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate Lambertson Lakes No. 3 for its contribution to recreational activities and its role in storing water for the community. The dam's location, design, and functionality make it a key landmark in Thornton, Colorado. As a regulated structure with a focus on public safety, Lambertson Lakes No. 3 showcases the intersection of environmental conservation, water management, and outdoor recreation in a dynamic and evolving ecosystem.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

461

Dam Height

27

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Hydraulic Height

17

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

86

Structural Height

27

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

27
       
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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.