Lolita #3, located in Las Animas, Colorado, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1895 for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes. The dam stands at a height of 12 feet and spans a length of 2100 feet, with a storage capacity of 1687 acre-feet and a surface area of 140 acres. Situated on the Black Draw-OS stream, this structure is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, ensuring regular inspections and enforcement of safety measures.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Lolita #3 poses a high risk due to its proximity to populated areas and critical infrastructure. The dam has not undergone a formal condition assessment, and its emergency action plan is not up to date. With a drainage area of 2 square miles and a maximum discharge of 1367 cubic feet per second, the potential consequences of a failure could have significant impacts on downstream communities and ecosystems.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor the condition of Lolita #3, there is a growing need for updated risk assessments, emergency preparedness measures, and regular maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of this historic dam. Collaboration between private owners, regulatory agencies, and local stakeholders will be essential in mitigating the potential risks associated with this aging infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions.