Short, located in La Plata, Colorado, is a privately owned earth dam with a primary purpose of irrigation. Built in 1940, this structure stands at 16 feet tall and spans 580 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet. Serving the Trumble Draw river or stream, Short also fulfills purposes such as fire protection, stock, and small fish pond needs in addition to irrigation.

While Short is considered to have a low hazard potential, it is categorized as having a high risk level. Despite not being rated for its condition assessment, the dam has been inspected regularly, with the last inspection dating back to August 1991. With a spillway width of 1 foot and no locks associated with it, Short plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area, contributing to the overall water supply and ecosystem health in the region.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate dynamics can appreciate Short's historical significance and ongoing role in supporting various water-related activities in the community. As a regulated and permitted structure with enforcement mechanisms in place, Short highlights the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams for both human and environmental safety. Its location, design, and operational features make Short a valuable asset for understanding water infrastructure in the context of sustainable resource management and climate resilience efforts.