Six & Fifty Detention Dam, located in Mesa, Colorado, serves as a vital debris control structure along a tributary of West Salt Creek. Owned and operated by the Bureau of Land Management, this gravity dam stands at a height of 20 feet with a hydraulic height of 14 feet, providing a storage capacity of 201 acre-feet. Completed in 1957, the dam safeguards the surrounding area from debris flows and sediment transport, contributing to the overall ecosystem health and water quality of the region.

With a low hazard potential and a not rated condition assessment, Six & Fifty Detention Dam remains a reliable infrastructure for managing water resources in Colorado. Despite its age, the dam has been regularly inspected by the Bureau of Land Management, ensuring its operational efficiency and structural integrity. The dam's primary purpose of debris control highlights its importance in mitigating potential risks and maintaining a safe environment for nearby communities and wildlife.

As a federally regulated structure, Six & Fifty Detention Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management within the state. With its strategic location and design, the dam continues to provide essential services for flood control and sediment retention, contributing to the overall sustainability of the surrounding ecosystem. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this dam serves as a prime example of effective infrastructure that balances environmental protection and water management needs.