Elk Lake #1 is a privately owned earth dam located in Teller County, Colorado, specifically in the city of Florissant. Built in 1971 by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, with a maximum storage capacity of 126 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 75 acre-feet. The dam stands at a height of 31 feet, with a structural height of 44 feet, and a spillway width of 83 feet.

Situated on Twin Creek-TR, Elk Lake #1 covers an area of 8 acres and has a drainage area of 3 square miles. With a maximum discharge capacity of 2200 cubic feet per second, this dam has been deemed to have a low hazard potential and is in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in September 2015. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, Elk Lake #1 has not had an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) prepared, raising questions about its preparedness for potential emergencies.

As a water resource and climate enthusiast, Elk Lake #1 presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned dam in Colorado with a focus on recreation. With its unique design features and location in a picturesque setting, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of regular inspections and emergency preparedness measures to ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources in the face of changing climate conditions.