Located in Archuleta County, Colorado, the Sappington dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond management. Constructed in 1981, this earth dam stands at a height of 60 feet and has a storage capacity of 421 acre-feet. Managed by a private owner, the dam is regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, ensuring regular inspections and enforcement of safety measures.

With a spillway width of 20 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 800 cubic feet per second, the Sappington dam poses a significant hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in satisfactory condition. The dam's emergency action plan was last updated in 2008, and it meets regulatory guidelines for risk management. While the risk assessment indicates a moderate risk level, the dam's location in the Coyote Creek watershed provides vital water resources for irrigation, wildlife preservation, and emergency fire suppression efforts in the region.

Overall, Sappington dam stands as a crucial infrastructure for water resource management in the area, providing essential services for both agricultural and environmental purposes. Climate enthusiasts and water resource professionals alike can appreciate the dam's role in maintaining a delicate balance between human needs and ecological sustainability in the Colorado landscape.