Located in Montezuma County, Colorado, the Totten dam serves as a vital water resource for the local community, primarily used for irrigation purposes. Built in 1965 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a storage capacity of 4540 acre-feet. The reservoir has a surface area of 244 acres and is fed by the Simon Draw-TR river or stream.

Despite its fair condition assessment in 2020, Totten poses a high hazard potential due to its uncontrolled spillway and moderate risk level. The dam is regulated and inspected by the Colorado Division of Water Resources, ensuring its compliance with state safety standards. The emergency action plan for Totten was last revised in 2015, and the dam is equipped with one slide gate for outlet control.

With its strategic location, significant storage capacity, and multiple purposes including fish and wildlife habitat, recreation, and irrigation, Totten plays a crucial role in water management within the region. As a key infrastructure for water supply and conservation, the dam continues to be a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to understand the intersection of infrastructure, regulation, and environmental stewardship in Colorado's water landscape.