Chimney Hollow Reservoir Project

The Chimney Hollow Reservoir Project is a collaboration between 12 Northeastern Colorado water providers to improve the reliability of, or make firm, water supplies from the Windy Gap Project. Chimney Hollow Reservoir will be located just west of Carter Lake in Larimer County to provide dedicated storage to supply a reliable 30,000 acre-feet of water each year for future generations.  

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Provides storage for 30,000 acre-feet of existing water rights associated with the Windy Gap Project

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Provides environmental benefits to Colorado's rivers and streams through various commitments

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Enhances recreation opportunities to encourage healthy, outdoor lifestyles for residents

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Helps meet an increased demand for water in Northern Colorado communities

Last lift of clay is placed on the Chimney Hollow Saddle Dam in November 2024

Saddle Dam at Chimney Hollow Reservoir Nears Completion 

The $10 million Chimney Hollow saddle dam, 2.5 miles south of the main dam at the head of the valley, is slated for completion in December. 

The beginning of construction of the inlet outlet tower just outside the tunnel portal.

Construction Started on Inlet/Outlet Tower

In October, crews began construction on the 40-foot-tall inlet/outlet tower located outside the tunnel on the right abutment of the dam.

View of the concrete walls that tie the spillway into the main dam on the west abutment.

Spillway Walls Tied into Main Dam

As of early November, the walls that tie the spillway into the main dam are complete.