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What’s Happening Now (as of 5/17/24)

Update on Repairs to Ketner Lake’s Water Valve 

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 install 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, 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.

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.
 

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.