Hawk Springs Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mcmillen No. 2 Mcmillen No. 3
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Hawk Springs, located in Goshen County, Wyoming, is a privately owned irrigation reservoir situated at the confluence of Horse Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1925, this earth-core dam stands at a height of 64 feet, with a hydraulic height of 50 feet and a structural height of 58 feet. The reservoir has a storage capacity of 24,500 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 16,735 acre-feet and a surface area of 1,328 acres. Despite its impressive size, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, with a high hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment.
The reservoir serves primarily for irrigation purposes, reflecting its importance in sustaining agricultural activities in the region. With a drainage area of 21.1 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 2,447 cubic feet per second, Hawk Springs plays a crucial role in water management and distribution. However, the dam's poor condition and high hazard potential indicate the need for regular inspections and potential risk management measures to ensure the safety and reliability of this vital water resource.
Although Hawk Springs is not under the jurisdiction of any federal agency, it is regulated by the State Engineer's Office in Wyoming. The dam's location in a high-risk area underscores the importance of proper maintenance and emergency preparedness to mitigate potential hazards and safeguard the surrounding communities and ecosystems. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to monitor and advocate for the sustainable management of Hawk Springs and other critical water infrastructure to ensure their long-term viability and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1925 |
Dam Length |
2400 |
Dam Height |
64 |
River Or Stream |
HORSE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1328 |
Hydraulic Height |
50 |
Drainage Area |
21.1 |
Nid Storage |
24500 |
Structural Height |
58 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
64 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Hawk Springs