Jordan Reservoir Report
Nearby: Turner No. 1 Dolores No. 1
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Jordan Dam, located in Niobrara, Wyoming, is a privately owned structure built in 1952 primarily for irrigation purposes.
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Summary
The dam, standing at 26 feet tall with a hydraulic height of 21 feet, spans 891 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 307 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed to be in poor condition, emphasizing the need for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity.
The Jordan Dam overlooks the Jordan Draw river/stream and is regulated by the Wyoming State Engineer's Office. It has a spillway width of 75 feet and is equipped with a single slide gate for outlet control. The dam's location in a remote area, 20 miles away from Edgemont, SD, highlights its importance in providing water resources for agricultural activities in the region. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, indicating the need for proactive risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards.
In light of its historical significance and ongoing challenges with maintenance, the Jordan Dam serves as a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of infrastructure, agriculture, and environmental stewardship. As efforts continue to address the dam's poor condition and ensure its long-term viability, stakeholders are called upon to collaborate on strategies for sustainable water management and resilience in the face of changing climates.
Year Completed |
1952 |
Dam Length |
891 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
JORDAN DRAW |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
22 |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Nid Storage |
307 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Jordan