Big Sandy Creek Watershed S-1, also known as Klasne, is a crucial flood risk reduction structure located in El Paso County, Colorado. Managed by the local government, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a structural height of 31 feet, with a length of 2590 feet. Completed in 1963, it serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction for the Big Sandy Creek, with a normal storage capacity of 313 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 4070 cubic feet per second.

This dam plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding, with a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of July 2020. The spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 300 feet, and the outlet gates consist of a Needle - 0 configuration. The risk assessment for this structure is moderate, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its continued effectiveness in mitigating flood risks in the region.

Overall, Big Sandy Creek Watershed S-1 is a critical component of the water resource management infrastructure in El Paso County, Colorado. With its strategic location and design by USDA NRCS, this dam stands as a testament to effective flood risk reduction measures in the face of changing climate conditions. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of structures like Big Sandy Creek Watershed S-1 is essential in safeguarding communities and ecosystems from the impacts of extreme weather events.