Pilot Butte

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Pilot Butte, located in Riverton, Wyoming, is a federal-owned earth dam constructed in 1925 for irrigation purposes on the Wyoming Canal. Managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, this multi-arch dam stands at a height of 64 feet and has a hydraulic height of 55 feet, with a storage capacity of 36,900 acre-feet. The dam spans 1,300 feet in length and has a spillway width of 100 feet to accommodate a maximum discharge of 500 cubic feet per second.

With a surface area of 900 acres and a drainage area of 9 square miles, Pilot Butte plays a crucial role in water resource management in Fremont County, Wyoming. While the dam has a high hazard potential, it is regularly inspected by the Bureau of Reclamation, with the last inspection conducted in July 2020. Despite not having a condition assessment available, the dam's risk assessment is moderate, with risk management measures in place to ensure its structural integrity and the safety of downstream communities.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Pilot Butte represents a significant engineering feat in the region, serving as a vital component of the irrigation infrastructure along the Wyoming Canal. As a key feature in the Bureau of Reclamation's operations, the dam stands as a testament to the agency's commitment to managing water resources effectively and ensuring the safety of surrounding communities. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance, Pilot Butte continues to play a crucial role in sustaining agricultural activities and water supply in Fremont County.