Johnstown, located in Weld County, Colorado, is home to a critical water resource infrastructure known as the Johnstown Dam. Completed in 1953, this earth dam on the Big Thompson River-OS serves as a vital water supply source for the region, with a storage capacity of 350 acre-feet and a surface area of 34 acres. Despite its importance, the dam's condition assessment in 2020 deemed it unsatisfactory, with a high hazard potential, indicating the need for significant maintenance and upgrades to ensure the safety of the surrounding community.

The Johnstown Dam, standing at 16 feet in height and stretching over 5737 feet in length, plays a crucial role in water management and supply for the area. However, its high risk assessment of 2 (on a scale of 1-5) underscores the urgency of addressing its structural integrity and hazard potential. With state regulation and inspection in place, efforts must be intensified to improve the dam's condition and reduce the risk to downstream communities in case of a potential failure.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the situation at the Johnstown Dam highlights the importance of proactive maintenance and risk management for critical infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced in safeguarding our water resources and infrastructure against potential threats, underscoring the need for continued monitoring, investment, and community engagement to ensure resilience in the face of a changing climate.