Y T Ranch, located in Collbran, Colorado, is a privately owned recreational facility built in 1911 on Grove Creek. The ranch's primary purpose is for recreation, with secondary purposes including irrigation. The dam at Y T Ranch is an earth dam with a height of 33 feet and a hydraulic height of 29 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 193 acre-feet.

The dam has undergone several structural modifications over the years, with the most recent ones in 1973, 1987, and 2004. Despite these upgrades, the dam's current condition is deemed unsatisfactory, with a high hazard potential. The last inspection in May 2020 revealed that the dam does not meet safety guidelines and poses a moderate risk (rating of 3). Emergency action plans are either not prepared or do not meet guidelines, raising concerns about the ranch's ability to respond in case of a dam failure.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Y T Ranch an intriguing case study for the challenges and risks associated with aging dams in recreational settings. The ranch's location in Mesa County, Colorado, surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, highlights the importance of balancing water management for both agricultural and recreational purposes. As the dam continues to age and deteriorate, stakeholders must prioritize safety measures and invest in necessary upgrades to mitigate potential risks to the environment and surrounding communities.