John Martin Dam - Fort Lyon Protective Works, also known as John Martin Reservoir, is a gravity dam located in Lamar, Colorado, along the Arkansas River. Built in 1943 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam serves as a crucial flood risk reduction structure in the area. Standing at a height of 118 feet with a length of 1024 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 608,245 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 11,590 acres.

Managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, John Martin Dam plays a significant role in mitigating flood risks in the region by monitoring its condition, prioritizing maintenance activities, and collaborating with local emergency managers to ensure preparedness for any dam-related emergencies. The dam has a high hazard potential, and risk management measures are continuously implemented to enhance public safety and awareness. With a focus on maintaining the structural integrity of the dam and managing water levels effectively, the USACE remains vigilant in addressing all types of flood risks associated with the structure.

As a vital component of the local water resource infrastructure, John Martin Dam - Fort Lyon Protective Works underscores the importance of proactive risk management and emergency preparedness in safeguarding communities and ecosystems from potential flooding events. Through ongoing monitoring, maintenance, and collaboration with stakeholders, the dam continues to fulfill its primary purpose of flood risk reduction while ensuring the safety and resilience of the surrounding area in the face of changing climate conditions.