Floodwater Retention B-3 is a privately owned earth dam located in Larimer County, Colorado, near the city of Wellington. Completed in 1979 by the USDA NRCS, this dam stands at a height of 50 feet and has a length of 3000 feet, with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction along Coal Creek. With a storage capacity of 6015 acre-feet and a drainage area of 60 square miles, this dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood hazards in the region.

Despite its high hazard potential, Floodwater Retention B-3 has been assessed as satisfactory in terms of condition, with the last inspection taking place in September 2019. The dam does not have a spillway but is equipped with outlet gates and has a maximum discharge capacity of 17,000 cubic feet per second. The risk assessment for this structure is classified as high, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its continued effectiveness in flood risk reduction.

With its strategic location and significant storage capacity, Floodwater Retention B-3 serves as a vital asset in managing flood risks in Larimer County. As climate change continues to impact precipitation patterns and increase the frequency of extreme weather events, structures like this earth dam play a crucial role in protecting communities and infrastructure from the devastating effects of flooding.