Wildcat No. 3

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Wildcat No. 3 is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Niobrara, Wyoming, along the South Fork Wildcat Draw. Completed in 1959, this earth dam stands at 35 feet high and spans a length of 472 feet, with a storage capacity of 176 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is irrigation, serving the surrounding agricultural community in the region. Despite being regulated by the Wyoming State Engineer's Office and undergoing regular inspections, the dam is classified as having a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment.

Managed by a private owner, Wildcat No. 3 plays a crucial role in sustaining the local water resources for agricultural use. With a spillway width of 125 feet and an uncontrolled spillway type, the dam poses a moderate risk with a risk assessment rating of 3. While the dam has a slide gate outlet, it is noted that the drainage area associated with the structure is currently zero. The condition assessment in 2019 deemed the dam to be in fair condition, with an inspection frequency of every 5 years to ensure its continued safety and functionality.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Wildcat No. 3 presents an interesting case study of a privately owned irrigation dam in Wyoming. The dam's location in the South Fork Wildcat Draw contributes to the sustainable use of water for agricultural purposes in the region. As efforts to manage and maintain dams like Wildcat No. 3 continue, the intersection of water resource management, infrastructure maintenance, and climate change adaptation becomes increasingly important for ensuring the resilience of our water systems in the face of evolving environmental challenges.