Rito Hondo, located in Hinsdale, Colorado, is a state-regulated earth dam completed in 1956 primarily for recreational purposes. With a height of 44 feet and a storage capacity of 766 acre-feet, this dam on the Rito Hondo stream offers a serene fish and wildlife pond spanning 41 acres. Despite its critical role in providing recreation opportunities, the dam's condition assessment is currently categorized as unsatisfactory, with a high hazard potential.

The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a spillway width of 35 feet, and is equipped with a slide (sluice gate) outlet gate. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam is inspected annually to ensure compliance with state regulations. However, the last inspection in August 2020 revealed an unsatisfactory condition, highlighting the need for ongoing risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards associated with this recreational water resource in South Fork, Colorado.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it's crucial to monitor and advocate for the maintenance and safety of structures like Rito Hondo to ensure their continued functionality and protection of surrounding communities. By staying informed about the condition and management of dams like Rito Hondo, we can contribute to the preservation of these vital water resources for both recreational enjoyment and environmental conservation.