Harper Lake
Key Takeaway
Harper Lake is classified as high hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1985 and is 41 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 11 ft (taller than 8.7% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 2,200 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 843 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 715 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 31 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 460 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1985 (41 years old) |
| NID ID | CO02674 |
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
CITY OF LOUISVILLE (KOWAR, KURT)
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Louisville No. 1
Boulder, CO
Significant Hazard 13 ftHecla
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Low Hazard 12 ftBaseline - East
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High Hazard 40 ftSuperior
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High Hazard 59 ftTeller No. 2
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Low Hazard 12 ftHodgson-Harris
Boulder, CO
Low Hazard 23 ftBaseline - Northwest
Boulder, CO
High Hazard 20 ftWaneka
Boulder, CO
High Hazard 27 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Harper Lake?
Harper 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 Harper Lake?
Harper Lake is owned by CITY OF LOUISVILLE (KOWAR, KURT) (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Harper Lake built?
Harper Lake was completed in 1985, making it 41 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 Harper Lake?
Harper Lake serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Harper Lake?
Harper Lake has a dam height of 11 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 Harper Lake last inspected?
Harper Lake was last inspected on October 11, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.