Rapid Creek #1 is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Palisade, Colorado along the Rapid Creek river. Built in 1934, this earth dam stands at a height of 19 feet and has a storage capacity of 1089 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 714 acre-feet. The dam has a significant hazard potential and is considered to be in fair condition as of the last assessment in June 2020.

The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 18 feet and two slide (sluice gate) outlet gates. It has undergone modifications in 1995 to improve its hydraulic and structural components. The dam is regularly inspected every two years to ensure its continued safety and functionality. Despite its moderate risk level, the dam provides crucial irrigation water for the surrounding area and plays a vital role in managing water resources in the region.

With its historical significance and importance for water management in the area, Rapid Creek #1 serves as a key infrastructure for agricultural activities and water resource management in Mesa County, Colorado. Its construction by the unknown designer and Zancanella & Assoc. underscores the engineering prowess of its time, while its ongoing maintenance and regulatory oversight by the Colorado Department of Water Resources ensure its continued safety and operational efficiency for the community.