Boss Lake
Key Takeaway
Boss Lake is classified as high hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1894 and is 132 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 21 ft (taller than 40.7% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 300 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 566 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 190 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 22 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,265 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1894 (132 years old) |
| NID ID | CO02167 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
UPPER ARKANSAS WATER CONSERVANCY DISTRICT (TERRY S
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Boss Lake?
Boss Lake is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Boss Lake?
Boss Lake is owned by UPPER ARKANSAS WATER CONSERVANCY DISTRICT (TERRY S (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Boss Lake built?
Boss Lake was completed in 1894, making it 132 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Boss Lake?
Boss Lake serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Boss Lake?
Boss Lake has a dam height of 21 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Boss Lake last inspected?
Boss Lake was last inspected on October 13, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.