Located in Costilla County, Colorado, the Smith dam stands as a crucial structure for irrigation purposes along the Trinchera Creek. Built in 1914, this rockfill dam reaches a height of 32 feet and has a hydraulic height of 38 feet, providing a storage capacity of 14,058 acre-feet. With a surface area of 587 acres and a drainage area of 351 square miles, Smith dam plays a significant role in water management for the region.

The dam, with a spillway width of 3218 feet, has a significant hazard potential but is deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in June 2020. The dam is under state regulation, with inspection, permitting, and enforcement conducted by the Colorado Division of Water Resources. While primarily used for irrigation, the dam also serves purposes such as fish and wildlife pond creation and recreation, showcasing its multi-faceted importance in the local ecosystem.

Despite being classified as a moderate risk structure, Smith dam maintains a solid risk management framework. The dam has been designed to handle a maximum discharge of 12,200 cubic feet per second and has a full storage capacity of 14,058 acre-feet. The surrounding area benefits from the reliable water supply maintained by the dam, contributing to the sustainability of agriculture and recreational activities in the region. Smith dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management and the importance of maintaining critical infrastructure for climate resilience.