Cottonwood #5 is a privately owned dam located in Mesa, Colorado, along the Cottonwood Creek. Built in 1909 for irrigation purposes, this earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet and has a storage capacity of 528 acre-feet. With a normal storage capacity of 352 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 37 acres and serves as a vital structure for water resource management in the region.

Despite its age, Cottonwood #5 has undergone modifications in 1985 to enhance its hydraulic, mechanical, and structural components. The dam is equipped with slide gates for outlet control and an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 17 feet. Recent inspections in July 2020 have deemed the dam's condition as fair, with a high hazard potential. However, with a moderate risk assessment score of 3, the dam is currently under regulatory oversight by the Colorado Department of Water Resources to ensure its safe operation and maintenance.

As a significant part of the water infrastructure in Molina, Colorado, Cottonwood #5 plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural irrigation and water supply in the region. By upholding regulatory standards and conducting regular inspections, the dam continues to contribute to sustainable water resource management while mitigating potential risks associated with its operation.