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What’s Happening Now (as of 4/24/24)

Update on Repairs to Ketner Lake’s Water Valve 

The new slide gate valve is currently being manufactured. Once the slide gate valve is ready, the contractor will schedule installation as the first phase of repairs. We will provide another update once we have a better idea of installation timelines.

On December 18, 2023 City Council approved a contract with Inland Marine, Inc. to repair the slide gate overflow mechanism. The slide gate became inoperable during a routine state inspection on October 31, 2023, which caused water levels in Ketner Lake to drop until a temporary plug was installed. 

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, Nov. 29 from 8-10 a.m. 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. If you would like to volunteer, please fill out this form: https://bit.ly/46gFNuM.

Background Information

A faulty valve was identified during a routine State inspection of Ketner Lake on Oct. 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.

Ketner Lake is a stormwater retention area and the city’s drinking water supply is not impacted.

To allow the dive team space to work, the trail on the east side of Ketner Lake will be temporarily closed until work is complete.

Staff continues to work with the state’s fish and wildlife department to follow all state and federal requirements and identify next steps for protecting and preserving wildlife.

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

FAQs

No, the stormwater from Ketner Lake will safely drain into Big Dry Creek along its natural drainage way and will not impact private property.

No, Ketner Lake is a stormwater retention area; there is no connection to any drinking water systems.

Yes. Ketner is a stormwater retention area, and it will refill naturally during rain and snow events. 

No. For your own safety, please do not attempt to remove debris from the lake bed.

Open Space staff has organized a volunteer cleanup on Wednesday, Nov. 29 from 8-10 a.m. Volunteers will help repair the main trail downstream and will work with Open Space staff to ensure proper disposal of debris. We are looking for 15 volunteers. All tools will be provided. If you would like to volunteer, please fill out this form: https://bit.ly/46gFNuM

We ask that you do not attempt to clean up the area on your own—please wait for this organized opportunity so the City can provide all the necessary tools and disposal to do this safely.

The lake is stocked by Colorado Parks & Wildlife. Current water levels are adequate to support the aquatic wildlife. State regulation prohibits the relocation of amphibians and reptiles and most are likely already dug in for hibernation at this time. There are no threatened, endangered or species of special concern associated with this body of water. Staff continues to work with the state’s fish and wildlife department to follow all state and federal requirements and identify next steps for protecting and preserving wildlife.