Cove Lake, located in Rio Blanco County, Colorado, is a privately owned reservoir primarily used for irrigation purposes since its completion in 1918. With a capacity of 90 acre-feet and a surface area of 5 acres, Cove Lake plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the region. The dam, standing at 28 feet tall and 354 feet long, serves as a vital water resource along the Morapos Creek-TR watershed.

Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Cove Lake is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement by the Colorado Department of Water Resources. The uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 18 feet, ensures proper water flow management during peak discharge events. The reservoir's risk assessment is categorized as moderate, emphasizing the importance of ongoing risk management measures to safeguard this essential water source for the community.

Cove Lake, situated 45 miles from Craig, Colorado, exemplifies the intersection of water resource management, climate resilience, and agricultural sustainability in the region. As a key component of the local irrigation infrastructure, this earth dam reservoir serves as a critical lifeline for farmers and ranchers, highlighting the intricate balance between water supply, regulatory oversight, and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climatic conditions.