Kiowa Creek Watershed K-38 is a vital water resource located in El Paso County, Colorado, specifically in the city of Elbert. Managed by the local government, this flood risk reduction dam was completed in 1956 by the U.S. Soil Conservation Service, now known as the USDA NRCS. With a height of 22 feet and a length of 335 feet, this earth dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Kiowa Creek-TR stream.

Maintained by the Department of Water Resources, this dam features an uncontrolled spillway and has a low hazard potential with satisfactory condition assessment as of October 2020. The structure has a storage capacity of 38 acre-feet, providing essential flood protection to the surrounding area. Despite being a local government-owned facility, it is regulated and permitted by the state, ensuring proper inspection and enforcement measures are in place to safeguard the community from potential risks.

Kiowa Creek Watershed K-38 is a prime example of effective water resource management in Colorado, where collaboration between federal and state agencies has resulted in a reliable flood control infrastructure. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, this dam plays a crucial role in mitigating potential flooding events and protecting the residents of Elbert. As climate change continues to impact water resources, maintaining and upgrading structures like K-38 will be essential in ensuring the resilience of communities in the face of changing weather patterns.