Ketner Lake

Learn about Ketner Lake.

What's Happening Now (as of April 18, 2025)

Routine Inspection Activity at Ketner Lake Will Occur on April 22, 2025

Staff and divers will be visiting Ketner Lake again this month as Westminster performs the annual Dam Safety Inspection in coordination with staff from the State Engineer’s Office of Dam Safety. These annual inspections ensure that each dam throughout Colorado meets all engineering and safety standards. This annual inspection will also provide Westminster staff with the first operation of the recently repaired outlet valve, which was successfully repaired last year. A dive team will be on hand to assist with the inspection and first operation of the new valve. Water released through the valve is expected and may be observed on the east side, flowing through the open space drainage area. Access to the dam may be limited for a day or two during this inspection.

Update on Repairs to Ketner Lake's Water Valve (May 17, 2024)

The valve replacement parts have been received, and the contractor started repairs on Monday, May 13, 2024. During construction, there will be heavy equipment onsite and large rocks and materials will be removed from the face of the dam. As part of the construction and installation of the new slide gate, there will be two times during the week of May 20, 2024 when water will be flushed through the drain pipe, discharging on the east side of the dam through the open space and drainage area. The dam will be closed and barricaded during the entire construction process. We will provide another update once the work is complete.

Dock Replacement

The Ketner Lake dock replacement project is now completed and open to the public. Open Space staff built the new ADA-accessible dock jetty and installed a metal railing complete with fishing rod holders. The trail nearby is also open, and will be resurfaced when conditions allow.

Volunteer Cleanup

The reduction in water levels at Ketner Lake has revealed tires and other debris. Our Open Space staff has organized a volunteer cleanup to take place on Wednesday, November 29 from 8 to 10 am. Volunteers will partner with Open Space staff to repair the main trail downstream and dispose of debris safely. We are looking for 15 volunteers. All tools will be provided. Apply to volunteer!

Background Information

A faulty valve was identified during a routine State inspection of Ketner Lake on October 31, 2023. The valve got stuck in the partially open position, allowing water to drain out of Ketner and into Big Dry Creek. On November 7, a highly specialized dive crew successfully sealed the outlet pipe, and water is no longer draining into Big Dry Creek.

On December 18, 2023, City Council approved a contract with Inland Marine, Inc. to repair the slide gate overflow mechanism.

We appreciate your patience and understanding while we work to remedy this issue.