Separation Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 24, 2025

Separation, also known as Deadman Lake, is a privately owned structure in Sweetwater, Wyoming, with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.


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Summary

Built in 1927, this earth dam stands at 13 feet tall and has a storage capacity of 759 acre-feet, serving irrigation and other purposes in the region. The dam, located on Separation Creek, has a spillway width of 15 feet and an uncontrolled spillway type, with a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment.

With its strategic location and efficient design, Separation plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience in the area. The dam not only provides protection against fires and supports local agriculture but also helps regulate water flow and maintain ecological balance in the region. Managed by the Wyoming State Engineer's Office, Separation serves as a key infrastructure for water storage and distribution, ensuring sustainable water use for the community.

As water enthusiasts and climate advocates, understanding the significance of structures like Separation is essential for promoting water security and environmental sustainability. By recognizing the importance of proper dam management and maintenance, we can work towards building a more resilient and adaptive water resource system that can withstand the challenges of a changing climate. Separation stands as a testament to the critical role of infrastructure in water management and highlights the need for proactive measures to safeguard our water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1927

Dam Length

50

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

SEPARATION CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

80

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

0.5

Nid Storage

759

Structural Height

13

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

13
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
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