Spence is a privately owned earth dam located in Archuleta, Colorado, serving primarily for irrigation purposes. Built in 1965, this structure stands at a height of 44 feet, with a hydraulic height of 48 feet and a structural height of 58 feet. It has a storage capacity of 617 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 425 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 4243 cubic feet per second.

The dam is situated on Spence Creek, with a drainage area of 2 square miles and a surface area of 32 acres. It features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 110 feet and is inspected every two years, with the last assessment in December 2020 rating its condition as satisfactory. With a significant hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, Spence is a vital infrastructure for water resource management in the region, contributing to fire protection, stock watering, and wildlife conservation efforts.

Managed by the Colorado Division of Water Resources, Spence plays a crucial role in supporting the agricultural activities in the area, while also ensuring the safety and well-being of the surrounding communities. With its strategic location and reliable design, this dam continues to be a key asset for water supply and climate resilience in Colorado, highlighting the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing environmental conditions.