Santa Maria is a private dam located in South Fork, Colorado, with a primary purpose of irrigation. Completed in 1911, this earth dam stands at 102 feet tall and stretches 1250 feet in length, providing storage for up to 49,400 acre-feet of water. The dam serves multiple purposes including fish and wildlife pond, irrigation, and recreation, making it a vital resource for the local community.

With a high hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment as of July 2020, Santa Maria is closely regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and six outlet valves, with a maximum discharge capacity of 2100 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, Santa Maria continues to play a crucial role in managing water resources and supporting various activities in the area.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate in the Mineral County area can appreciate Santa Maria's historical significance and ongoing importance in water management. As a key feature in the Boulder Creek-OS system, this dam symbolizes the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship, ensuring sustainable water usage for generations to come.