Bull Canal Lagoon Cell 3 West Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bull Canal Lagoon Cell 3 West, located in Fort Lupton, Colorado, is a vital water resource managed by the local government.


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Summary

This earth dam, constructed in 1982 by SHEAFFER & ROLAND, stands at a height of 32 feet and has a storage capacity of 89 acre-feet. With a surface area of 4 acres and a drainage area of 0, this structure serves as a key component in the management of water resources in the area.

Despite its low hazard potential, Bull Canal Lagoon Cell 3 West is regulated by the Department of Water Resources (DWR) and undergoes regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and compliance with state regulations. The dam plays a crucial role in controlling water flow from Big Dry Creek-OS and mitigating the risk of flooding in the surrounding areas. With a risk assessment rating of High (2), the management of this dam is of utmost importance for water and climate enthusiasts in the region.

As an essential water management infrastructure in Weld County, Bull Canal Lagoon Cell 3 West serves a primary purpose of 'Other' and is designated as a local government-owned structure. With a designated emergency action plan and low hazard potential, this dam plays a crucial role in protecting the local community from potential risks associated with water management. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the importance of this structure in maintaining water quality and quantity in the region.

Year Completed

1982

Dam Length

2200

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

BIG DRY CREEK-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

28

Nid Storage

89

Structural Height

32

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

32
       
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.