Erie, located in Boulder County, Colorado, is home to a significant water resource infrastructure known as the Erie Dam. This earth dam, completed in 1935, stands at a height of 17 feet and serves primarily for water supply purposes. With a storage capacity of 421 acre-feet and a normal storage of 306 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating the flow of Boulder Creek-OS and ensuring water availability for the local community.

Maintained and regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources (DWR), the Erie Dam has a high hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in satisfactory condition. Despite its age, regular inspections are conducted to ensure its structural integrity and operational effectiveness. With a spillway width of 50 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 1603 cubic feet per second, the dam is equipped to handle potential flood events and protect downstream areas.

Erie Dam's risk assessment categorizes it as having a moderate risk level, with measures in place to manage and mitigate potential hazards. As a vital piece of water infrastructure in the area, the dam underscores the importance of water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the face of changing environmental conditions. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Erie serves as a compelling case study in the intersection of infrastructure, regulation, and environmental stewardship.