Floodwater Ret Dam Ss-8.5, also known as Debris Drainage Dam Ss-8.5, is a local government-owned structure in Sedgwick, Colorado, designed by USDA NRCS to reduce flood risk along the South Platte River. Completed in 1990, this earth dam stands at a height of 17 feet and has a hydraulic height of 12 feet, with a structural height of 21 feet. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, as well as debris control, and it has a maximum storage capacity of 102 acre-feet.

Located in Ovid, Colorado, this dam spans a length of 1000 feet and features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 52 feet. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, it is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement by the Colorado Department of Water Resources. The dam has undergone its last inspection in September 2015, with a recommended inspection frequency of every 6 years to ensure its continued safety and effectiveness in mitigating flood risks in the region.

Overall, Floodwater Ret Dam Ss-8.5 plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from flooding, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. While it may not be a high-risk structure, its strategic placement along the South Platte River underscores its importance in managing water resources and climate-related hazards in Sedgwick County. As a key component of the local flood control system, this dam serves as a vital infrastructure asset in safeguarding the community against potential water-related disasters.