Mark #1 is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Rio Blanco, Colorado, along the West CR river. Built in 1964, this earth dam stands at 22 feet high and stretches for 650 feet, providing a storage capacity of 91 acre-feet for irrigation purposes. The dam also serves for fire protection, stock, small fish pond, and wildlife pond, showcasing its versatility in supporting various water resource needs in the area.

With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of September 2016, Mark #1 is considered to pose a moderate risk level, according to the data. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 32 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 410 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, the dam continues to meet state regulatory standards, with regular inspections and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and functionality for the surrounding community.

Maintaining a critical role in water management in the region, Mark #1 stands as a testament to the importance of private infrastructure in sustaining agricultural and environmental needs. As climate change impacts water resources, dams like Mark #1 contribute to the resilience of local ecosystems and communities by providing essential water storage and distribution for irrigation and other purposes. With ongoing monitoring and maintenance, Mark #1 remains a vital component of water resource management in Colorado.