Spanish Peaks Ranch #13 is a private water resource located in Las Animas, Colorado, specifically in the city of Aguilar. This dam, completed in 1957, serves various purposes including fish and wildlife pond, recreation, and water supply. With a height of 34 feet and a length of 785 feet, it has a storage capacity of 62 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 5 acres. The dam is regulated and inspected by the Colorado Division of Water Resources, ensuring its structural integrity and safe operation.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, Spanish Peaks Ranch #13 is considered to have a high risk due to its location and potential impact in case of failure. The dam lacks a spillway and outlet gates, which could pose challenges in managing excess water flow during heavy rainfall or flooding events. The last inspection in 2013 revealed no significant issues, but regular assessments and risk management measures are crucial to mitigate potential threats and ensure the safety of downstream communities and ecosystems that rely on the Apishapa River-TR for water resources and habitat maintenance.

As an essential feature of the Colorado water infrastructure, Spanish Peaks Ranch #13 highlights the importance of proper regulation, inspection, and risk assessment in managing dams for multiple purposes such as wildlife conservation, recreation, and water supply. Climate change and increasing water demands make it crucial for dam owners and regulatory agencies to prioritize safety measures and emergency preparedness to prevent disasters and safeguard the health of ecosystems that depend on these reservoirs.