Richards is a private water structure located in Larimer County, Colorado, specifically in the city of Fort Collins. Built in 1904, Richards serves primarily for irrigation purposes along the Cache la Poudre River. This Earth-type dam stands at a height of 21 feet and has a storage capacity of 950 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 515 acre-feet over a surface area of 68 acres.

Despite being classified with a high hazard potential, Richards is currently in satisfactory condition as of its last inspection in June 2020. It is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, ensuring its compliance with state regulations and safety standards. The dam has a moderate risk assessment of 3 and is under the jurisdiction of the state for emergency action planning and risk management.

Richards is a vital component of the water resource infrastructure in the area, providing essential irrigation benefits while also posing a significant hazard potential that requires careful monitoring and management. With its location along the Cache la Poudre River and its satisfactory condition, Richards represents a key piece of the water management puzzle in Larimer County, highlighting the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience in the region.