Banning Lewis #1, located in Colorado Springs, Colorado, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1888 for flood risk reduction along the East Fork Sand Creek. With a height of 30 feet and a length of 750 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 150 acre-feet and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, or small fish pond, in addition to flood risk reduction. Despite its age, the dam has a low hazard potential and is currently not rated for its condition.

Although last inspected in 1998, with a scheduled inspection frequency of 6 years, Banning Lewis #1 is under state regulation with permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes in place. The dam has a maximum discharge rate of 2,645 cubic feet per second and a spillway width of 90 feet. While it presents a high risk due to its age and lack of recent assessments, the dam remains an essential structure for managing water resources and climate-related challenges in the region.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Banning Lewis #1 a fascinating example of historic infrastructure designed to mitigate flood risks and support various water management purposes. As an integral component of the water system in El Paso County, this dam serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued effectiveness in protecting the surrounding community from potential hazards.