Crooked Arroyo Det Ca-3 is a flood risk reduction structure located in the city of La Junta, Colorado. Constructed in 1972 by the Soil Conservation Service, USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 33 feet and has a structural height of 40 feet, with a length of 1504 feet and a storage capacity of 753 acre-feet. It serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Crooked Arroyo-TR river, with a drainage area of 5 square miles and a maximum discharge of 5250 cubic feet per second.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, Crooked Arroyo Det Ca-3 has a significant hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in December 2018. The dam has an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 235 feet and is designed to withstand moderate risk levels. With a surface area of 51 acres and a normal storage capacity of 446 acre-feet, this structure plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

Despite its age, Crooked Arroyo Det Ca-3 continues to be a vital component of the region's water resource management, showcasing the importance of maintaining and monitoring infrastructure to mitigate the impacts of climate change on local communities. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the design, purpose, and condition of structures like Crooked Arroyo Det Ca-3 is essential in safeguarding our environment and ensuring the resilience of our water systems in the face of evolving climatic challenges.