Ryan is a privately owned dam located in Las Animas, Colorado, with a primary purpose of irrigation. Built in 1955 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 31 feet and stretches 379 feet in length. The dam has a storage capacity of 39 acre-feet, providing water for fish and wildlife ponds, as well as irrigation purposes.

Situated on the North Fork Vermejo River, Ryan Dam is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is considered to have a high risk due to its condition not being rated and its last inspection dating back to 1992. The dam does not have a spillway, but is equipped with outlet gates and has a maximum discharge capacity of 733 cubic feet per second.

Ryan Dam is a crucial water resource in the region, serving the community of Vermejo Park and surrounding areas. With its historical significance dating back to the mid-20th century, efforts are needed to ensure the safety and proper maintenance of this vital infrastructure for sustainable water management and climate resilience in the area.