Wildcat No. 1 is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Niobrara, Wyoming, along the Wildcat Draw river. Built in 1953, this earth dam stands at a height of 40 feet and has a storage capacity of 327 acre-feet, serving the primary purpose of irrigation. Despite being regulated and inspected by the Wyoming State Engineer's Office, the dam is rated with a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, with a moderate risk level.
This uncontrolled spillway dam features a spillway width of 200 feet and an outlet gate in the form of a slide (sluice gate). With a drainage area of zero and a surface area of 19 acres, Wildcat No. 1 has been deemed to have a moderate risk level, indicating the need for careful risk management measures. Located in a congressional district represented by Liz Cheney (R), this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region, highlighting the intersection of water resources and climate issues in the area.
Despite its low hazard potential, Wildcat No. 1 serves as a vital infrastructure for irrigation in the region, showcasing the importance of maintaining and monitoring such water resource structures. With a focus on risk assessment and management, this dam underscores the need for proactive measures to ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources in the face of changing climate conditions.