Middlemist is a vital water resource located in Elbert, Colorado, serving as a public utility for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes. This earth dam, completed in 1907, stands at a height of 22 feet and has a storage capacity of 260 acre-feet, with a maximum discharge rate of 28,000 cubic feet per second. The dam spans 635 feet in length and covers a surface area of 34 acres, drawing from a drainage area of 13 square miles along Middlemist Creek.

Managed by the Department of Water Resources (DWR) in Colorado, Middlemist Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and functionality. With a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam poses a moderate risk level, prompting the need for risk management measures to safeguard against any potential emergencies. Despite its age, Middlemist continues to play a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in the region, reflecting the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience.