Located in La Plata County, Colorado, Lemon is a federally owned rockfill dam that serves multiple purposes, including fish and wildlife pond, hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, and recreation. Built in 1962 by the Bureau of Reclamation, Lemon stands at an impressive height of 284 feet, with a storage capacity of 48,658 acre-feet and a surface area of 686 acres. The dam is situated on the Florida River and is regulated by the Department of Water Resources.

With a high hazard potential and a risk assessment rating of 2, Lemon is subject to regular state inspections, enforcement, and permitting to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam does not have a spillway but is equipped with outlet gates and a spillway width of 57 feet. Despite its age, Lemon continues to play a crucial role in the local ecosystem, providing water for wildlife, irrigation for agriculture, and recreational opportunities for the community. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will be fascinated by Lemon's history, design, and ongoing management efforts to mitigate potential risks.