Lake water is warmed as it is used to generate power, so parts of Valmont Lakes do not freeze. Water-birds flock to the lakes, because they are often the only open water along the Front Range in winter.

Historically, ospreys and pelicans did not nest in Eastern Colorado. With the development of reservoirs, both species are now found in Boulder County. In 1998, the first nesting pair of ospreys in Boulder set up housekeeping at Valmont Lakes.

Other Wildlife Links for Valmont Lakes:

Xcel Energy Owl Cam at Valmont Station.

Bill Schmoker's photos of Boulder County birds

Right: Ospreys nesting.  Photo courtesy of Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks.