Nichols, also known as Northfield #4, is a key water resource located in El Paso County, Colorado, specifically in the city of Colorado Springs. This dam, completed in 1929, serves primarily for water supply purposes and has a maximum storage capacity of 625 acre-feet. The dam, standing at 56 feet tall with a length of 425 feet, holds back the waters of the West Monument Creek, providing essential water resources to the surrounding areas.

Managed by the local government, Nichols Dam is regulated and inspected by the Colorado Division of Water Resources to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the condition of the dam is assessed as fair, with the last inspection conducted in August 2018. The emergency action plan for the dam is in place, although it has not been updated recently, and the risk assessment for the dam is moderate, indicating the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential risks.

Overall, Nichols Dam plays a crucial role in water supply and recreation in the region, highlighting the importance of sustainable water resource management and infrastructure maintenance in the face of changing climate conditions. With its historical significance and functional purpose, Nichols Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management, climate resilience, and community well-being in Colorado.