Dodd, a private dam located in Niwot, Colorado, serves primarily for irrigation purposes along the Left Hand Creek-OS. Built in 1875, this Earth-type dam stands at 12 feet tall with a length of 789 feet, providing a storage capacity of 244 acre-feet. With a surface area of 28 acres, Dodd has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of its last inspection in June 2016. Despite its age, the dam continues to play a crucial role in supporting agriculture in the region while also offering recreational opportunities.

Managed by the Colorado Division of Water Resources, Dodd is subject to state regulations and inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam's spillway, classified as uncontrolled, has a width of 1 foot and a maximum discharge capacity of 100 cubic feet per second. Although Dodd has not undergone significant modifications over the years, its risk assessment categorizes it as moderate, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and risk management measures. With its historical significance and continued relevance in water resource management, Dodd stands as a testament to the enduring impact of infrastructure on local communities and ecosystems.

As climate change poses new challenges to water resource management, Dodd's role in sustaining irrigation practices and recreational activities takes on added significance. With its location in Boulder County and the oversight of the state regulatory agency, DWR, Dodd represents a blend of historical relevance and contemporary water management practices. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience, understanding the intricacies of dams like Dodd is essential in promoting sustainable water use and environmental stewardship in a changing climate landscape.