Doughty is a historic earth dam located in Hotchkiss, Delta County, Colorado, along the LEROUX CREEK-TR. Built in 1888 and standing at 27 feet tall with a length of 1225 feet, Doughty serves primarily for irrigation purposes and water supply. Managed by a private owner, the dam is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity.

Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Doughty poses a high risk due to its age and the potential for failure. The dam lacks a spillway and has uncontrolled outlet gates, which may contribute to increased risk during heavy rainfall or flooding events. Emergency action plans are not up to date, raising concerns about the preparedness for any unforeseen emergencies.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Doughty to be a fascinating case study in historic dam infrastructure, showcasing the challenges of maintaining aging structures for irrigation purposes in the face of evolving regulatory requirements and potential risks. The dam's location in a rural area of Colorado adds to its unique character and underscores the importance of proactive maintenance and monitoring to ensure the safety and reliability of our water resources.