Poso Detention Dam, also known as Riprap, is a federal-owned structure located in Conejos, Colorado, designed for flood risk reduction along a tributary to the Conejos River. Built in 1963 by the Bureau of Land Management, this gravity dam stands at a structural height of 36 feet with a hydraulic height of 30 feet, spanning a length of 1171 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 263.7 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 46.7 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 307 acres.

Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure and not yet rated for condition assessment, Poso Detention Dam is regulated by the Department of Water Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. The dam has not undergone any modifications since its completion and is equipped with emergency action plans, although their details have not been updated recently. While the dam does not have outlet gates or associated locks, its primary purpose remains flood risk reduction, serving as a crucial asset in managing water resources and climate-related challenges in the region.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Poso Detention Dam represents a significant engineering feat in mitigating flood risks and protecting surrounding areas from potential inundation. Managed by the Bureau of Land Management, this gravity dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and storage along a vital tributary to the Conejos River. With its strategic location and design, the dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management, highlighting the importance of infrastructure in addressing climate-related challenges in Colorado and beyond.