The Ranch is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Westminster, Colorado, along the Big Dry Creek. Completed in 1979, this earth dam stands at a height of 17 feet and has a storage capacity of 28 acre-feet. With a significant hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of July 2020, this dam plays a crucial role in providing water for agricultural purposes in the area.

Despite being regulated and inspected by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, The Ranch still poses a moderate risk level, with an uncontrolled spillway and a maximum discharge of 55 cubic feet per second. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in 2012, and there are no inundation maps prepared for potential risk assessment. With a designated inspection frequency of every two years, ongoing risk management measures are essential to ensure the safety and integrity of this vital water resource infrastructure.

Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find The Ranch to be an intriguing case study in dam engineering and management. From its construction history to its current risk assessment status, this irrigation dam serves as a crucial piece of infrastructure in the local water supply network. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding and addressing the risks associated with dams like The Ranch will be key in ensuring sustainable water management practices for the future.