John May #1 is a private dam located in El Paso, Colorado, specifically in FT. CARSON. Built in 1967, this Earth dam stands at 25 feet tall and spans a length of 1000 feet, serving primarily for irrigation purposes. Situated on the ROCK CREEK-OS river or stream, this dam has a storage capacity of 40 acre-feet with a normal storage level of 25 acre-feet. Although it has a low hazard potential, it is categorized as having a high risk with a rating of 2.

Managed by the Colorado State regulatory agency, the dam is inspected, permitted, and enforced by the Department of Water Resources (DWR). Despite not having a current condition assessment, the last inspection was conducted in October 2013. The dam has no spillway and does not have associated locks, but it is equipped to handle a maximum discharge of 300 cubic feet per second. As a critical infrastructure for water management in the area, John May #1 plays a vital role in sustaining agricultural activities and ensuring water supply reliability.

With its strategic location and importance for irrigation in the region, John May #1 serves as a key component of water resource management in Colorado. As a privately owned structure, it underscores the collaborative efforts between private entities and state regulators to safeguard water resources and mitigate risks associated with dam operations. The dam's history, design specifications, and risk assessment highlight its significance in maintaining water security and resilience in the face of changing climate conditions.