Grand Mesa #1, located in Grand Junction, Colorado, is a vital irrigation dam constructed in 1887 on Reservoir Creek. Standing at 22 feet in height and stretching 800 feet in length, this earth dam with stone core serves the primary purpose of providing water for agricultural use in the region. With a storage capacity of 655 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1 square mile, Grand Mesa #1 plays a crucial role in supporting the local farming community.

Despite its historical significance and essential role in irrigation, Grand Mesa #1 is currently rated as having a significant hazard potential with an unsatisfactory condition assessment. The dam has undergone regular inspections, with the last assessment conducted in July 2019. While the risk assessment deems the dam's risk level as moderate, there is a need for further risk management measures to ensure the safety and structural integrity of this important water resource infrastructure.

Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find Grand Mesa #1 to be a fascinating case study in the management and maintenance of aging irrigation dams. As a regulated and permitted structure under the jurisdiction of the Colorado Division of Water Resources, the dam's design by Buckhorn GeoEch and its historical significance add to its intrigue. With its location in a scenic landscape and its critical role in sustaining agricultural activities, Grand Mesa #1 serves as a reminder of the intricate balance between water resource management and climate resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.