Bunte, a privately owned irrigation dam located in Hot Sulphur Springs, Colorado, has been regulating the flow of Coyote Creek since its completion in 1911. With a dam height of 24 feet and a hydraulic height of 28 feet, Bunte provides essential water storage for irrigation purposes in the region. The dam has a storage capacity of 32 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 4 acres, serving a drainage area of 6 square miles.

Despite its low hazard potential, Bunte's condition assessment in 2017 was deemed unsatisfactory, highlighting the need for maintenance and potential improvements. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 5 feet and a single slide gate for outlet control. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, there is a call for enhanced risk management measures and regular inspections to ensure the safety and functionality of the structure. The regulatory oversight of the Colorado Division of Water Resources includes permitting, inspection, and enforcement to uphold dam safety standards and protect the surrounding community from potential risks.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts delve into the details of Bunte's infrastructure, they are met with a historical landmark that continues to play a critical role in the irrigation network of Grand County. The dam's location within the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers underscores the importance of sustainable water management practices and the ongoing need for monitoring and maintenance to safeguard against potential risks and ensure the long-term viability of this essential water resource infrastructure.