Gary Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Gary is a private irrigation dam located in Campbell County, Wyoming, along the N Fork Trail Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1952, this earth dam stands at 34 feet high and has a storage capacity of 216 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is currently in poor condition, as assessed during its last inspection in July 2019. The spillway, which is uncontrolled with a width of 300 feet, is one of the key features of this structure.

This dam plays a crucial role in providing water for irrigation purposes in the region, with a normal storage capacity of 129 acre-feet. The surrounding area covers 15 acres, serving as a vital resource for the local agricultural community. However, given its poor condition and moderate risk level, there is a pressing need for risk management measures to ensure the safety and functionality of Gary dam moving forward. With its strategic location and historical significance, efforts to improve its condition and safety protocols are essential for sustainable water resource management in the area.

In the larger context of water resource management and climate resilience, the maintenance and improvement of structures like Gary dam are paramount. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, ensuring the safety and efficiency of irrigation infrastructure is crucial for supporting agricultural activities and community livelihoods. With proper maintenance, inspection, and risk assessment measures in place, Gary dam can continue to play a vital role in sustaining water resources in Campbell County, Wyoming for years to come.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

390

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

N FORK TRAIL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Hydraulic Height

29

Nid Storage

216

Structural Height

34

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

34
       
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.