Valley No. 1, located in El Paso, Colorado, near Colorado Springs, is a local government-owned earth dam completed in 1901 primarily for recreational purposes. The dam stands at a height of 32 feet with a hydraulic height of 26 feet and a structural height of 40 feet, providing a storage capacity of 151 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam has a high hazard potential and an unsatisfactory condition assessment, indicating the need for ongoing maintenance and monitoring.

Situated on Camp Creek-OS, Valley No. 1 has a surface area of 13 acres and a drainage area of 0. With a maximum discharge capacity of 580 cubic feet per second and no spillway, the dam poses a potential risk in case of a significant inflow event. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status is unclear, raising concerns about preparedness in the event of an emergency. Given its high-risk classification and the need for improvements, stakeholders in the water resource and climate community should closely monitor the condition of Valley No. 1 to ensure the safety of surrounding areas and the dam's continued functionality for recreational use.

In the broader context of water resource management, Valley No. 1 serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining aging infrastructure to mitigate potential hazards and safeguard local communities. Climate change impacts, such as increased precipitation and extreme weather events, may further stress dams like Valley No. 1, underscoring the need for proactive risk management strategies and investment in infrastructure resilience. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to advocate for sustainable practices and policies that prioritize the safety and sustainability of critical water infrastructure like Valley No. 1.