Windy Gap, located in Hot Sulphur Springs, Colorado, is a significant Earth dam project completed in 1985 for irrigation purposes along the Colorado River. Owned by the local government, this dam stands at a height of 25 feet with a hydraulic height of 23 feet and a structural height of 43 feet. With a storage capacity of 1633 acre-feet, Windy Gap plays a crucial role in water supply and irrigation for the region.

Managed by the Department of Water Resources, Windy Gap is regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam has a spillway width of 390 feet, an uncontrolled spillway type, and is equipped with slide and valve outlet gates. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam's condition is assessed as satisfactory, with regular inspections and a moderate risk level. Overall, Windy Gap serves as a vital water resource infrastructure in Grand County, Colorado, supporting local agriculture and water supply needs while adhering to strict regulatory standards.

With a drainage area of 773 square miles and a maximum discharge rate of 46,720 cubic feet per second, Windy Gap's impact on the surrounding ecosystem and climate is substantial. As climate change continues to affect water resources, the management and maintenance of structures like Windy Gap are crucial to ensure sustainable water management practices. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role of dams like Windy Gap in water supply, irrigation, and ecosystem health is essential in mitigating the impacts of a changing climate on our water systems.