Located in Elbert County, Colorado, the Kiowa Creek Watershed K-79 dam is a key structure for flood risk reduction along the Kiowa Creek. Constructed in 1955 by the U.S. Soil Conservation Service (now known as the USDA NRCS), this earth dam stands at a height of 33 feet with a hydraulic height of 30 feet. With a storage capacity of 251 acre-feet and a drainage area of 3 square miles, the dam serves as a critical line of defense against potential flooding events in the region.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, the Kiowa Creek Watershed K-79 dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates. Despite its fair condition assessment and low hazard potential, the dam is subject to regular inspections and maintenance. With a maximum discharge capacity of 6,129 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in protecting surrounding communities and infrastructure from the impacts of extreme weather events. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Kiowa Creek Watershed K-79 dam represents a vital piece of infrastructure in the ongoing efforts to mitigate flood risks and safeguard water resources in Elbert County, Colorado.