Anderson Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Anderson is a private irrigation dam located in Carbon County, Wyoming, specifically in the city of Saratoga.


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Summary

Built in 1931, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 28 feet and has a hydraulic height of 23 feet, with a length of 1600 feet. The dam serves the primary purpose of irrigation, with a storage capacity of 361 acre-feet and a surface area of 4 acres. The dam is situated on Otto Creek, a tributary of Cow Creek, and is regulated and inspected by the Wyoming State Engineer's Office.

Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, the condition assessment of Anderson dam is rated as poor, with the last inspection conducted in September 2017. This assessment raises concerns about the safety and structural integrity of the dam, especially considering its moderate risk assessment level. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 100 feet and an outlet gate for water release. With a history of modifications and a need for improved risk management measures, Anderson dam serves as a critical site for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor and advocate for necessary upgrades and maintenance.

Year Completed

1931

Dam Length

1600

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

OTTO CREEK, TRIB COW CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

23

Nid Storage

361

Structural Height

28

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

28
       
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.