German #12 is a historic irrigation dam located in Weld County, Colorado, along Big Dry Creek. Built in 1887, this earth dam stands at a height of 11 feet and stretches 750 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 119 acre-feet, it primarily serves the purpose of irrigation, while also providing fire protection, stock management, and recreational opportunities. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam poses a high risk due to its condition not being rated and the lack of emergency action preparedness.

Owned privately, German #12 is regulated by the Colorado Division of Water Resources and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. The dam has not been modified in recent years and does not have a spillway, locks, or associated structures. Although the risk assessment for this dam is considered high, with a hazard potential of 2 on a scale of 1 to 4, there is no detailed risk management plan or emergency action preparedness in place, raising concerns for potential safety issues in the future. Water resource and climate enthusiasts may be interested in monitoring the condition and management of German #12 to prevent any potential hazards and ensure the sustainable use of this important irrigation infrastructure.