Kiowa Creek Watershed K-41, also known as G. Darden Reservoir Dam, is a critical water resource infrastructure located in El Paso County, Colorado. Owned by the local government, this earth dam was completed in 1955 by the U.S. Soil Conservation Service and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction in the area. With a structural height of 25 feet and a maximum storage capacity of 36 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and protecting the surrounding communities from potential flooding events.

Situated on Kiowa Creek, the dam has a low hazard potential and is currently assessed to be in fair condition. Regular inspections and maintenance ensure its continued reliability in flood risk mitigation. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates help regulate water levels during heavy rain events, with a maximum discharge capacity of 1036 cubic feet per second. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the dam's operational efficiency and design make it a key asset in the region's water resource management efforts.

Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Kiowa Creek Watershed K-41 stands as a testament to collaborative efforts in water resource management. With its strategic location, engineering design, and regulatory compliance, the dam represents a vital piece of infrastructure for safeguarding against flooding and ensuring the sustainable use of water resources in El Paso County. As climate change continues to pose challenges to water management, the importance of structures like K-41 in protecting communities and ecosystems only grows more significant.