Ute Creek in Grand County, Colorado, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1976 primarily for water supply purposes. Standing at a height of 100 feet and with a hydraulic height of 108 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 429 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 95 acre-feet. With a drainage area of 1 square mile, Ute Creek Dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 739 cubic feet per second and covers a surface area of 12 acres.

Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, Ute Creek Dam is considered to be in fair condition as of its last assessment in June 2016. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 9 feet and has a risk assessment rating of moderate (3). The dam is subject to inspection every 6 years by the state regulatory agency, with enforcement and permitting also falling under state jurisdiction.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Ute Creek Dam offers a fascinating case study in the management of water supply infrastructure in Colorado. Its design, construction, and ongoing regulatory oversight provide insights into the challenges and considerations involved in maintaining a crucial water management structure in a region prone to fluctuations in climate and water availability.