North Poudre # 3
Key Takeaway
North Poudre # 3 is classified as high hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1980 and is 46 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 | 39 ft (taller than 80.5% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 1,600 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 4.2K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 3.1K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 229 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 9,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1980 (46 years old) |
| NID ID | CO00838 |
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
NORTH POUDRE IRR. CO. (MOEN, TAD)
Private
Nearby Dams
Box Elder #3
Larimer, CO
Low Hazard 20 ftNorth Poudre # 4
Larimer, CO
Significant Hazard 24 ftWasson
Larimer, CO
Low Hazard 15 ftNorth Poudre # 2
Larimer, CO
High Hazard 33 ftNorth Poudre #11
Larimer, CO
Low Hazard 8 ftMountain Supply # 7
Larimer, CO
Low Hazard 14 ftBarrett
Larimer, CO
Low Hazard 24 ftGeist
Larimer, CO
Low Hazard 12 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of North Poudre # 3?
North Poudre # 3 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 North Poudre # 3?
North Poudre # 3 is owned by NORTH POUDRE IRR. CO. (MOEN, TAD) (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was North Poudre # 3 built?
North Poudre # 3 was completed in 1980, making it 46 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 North Poudre # 3?
North Poudre # 3 serves the following purposes: Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is North Poudre # 3?
North Poudre # 3 has a dam height of 39 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 North Poudre # 3 last inspected?
North Poudre # 3 was last inspected on August 26, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.