Little Johnny, located in Canon City, Colorado, is a privately owned earth dam built in 1894 for irrigation purposes on Wilson Creek. Managed by the USDA NRCS, the dam stands at a height of 9.5 feet and has a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Little Johnny serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and water supply for the surrounding area.

Despite being over a century old, Little Johnny remains in good condition with a structural height of 10 feet and a spillway width of 40 feet for uncontrolled release of excess water. The dam covers a surface area of 7 acres and has a drainage area of 0.16 square miles, making it a vital resource for the local community. While the dam has not been modified in recent years and lacks a formal emergency action plan, its operations are overseen by the USDA NRCS to ensure safety and functionality for ongoing irrigation needs.

With its historical significance and continued importance for water resource management in Fremont County, Colorado, Little Johnny stands as a testament to the enduring value of infrastructure built for agricultural and environmental purposes. As climate change impacts water availability and usage patterns, maintaining and potentially upgrading dams like Little Johnny will be crucial for sustainable water management in the region. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience can appreciate the role that structures like Little Johnny play in balancing human needs with ecological health in a changing world.