Summary
Completed in 1911, this earth dam stands at 28 feet high with a hydraulic height of 26 feet and a length of 730 feet. It serves the primary purpose of irrigation, providing a storage capacity of 138 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 96 acre-feet. Despite its age, Phelps is classified as having a low hazard potential but is assessed as being in poor condition as of the last inspection in August 2018.
Situated in the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Phelps is regulated by the State of Wyoming and subject to state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 25 feet and a single slide (sluice gate) outlet gate. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, Phelps may require risk management measures in the future to ensure its continued safety and functionality. With its historical significance and importance to local irrigation practices, Phelps remains a key water resource structure in the region.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of infrastructure, water management, and environmental sustainability will find Phelps to be a fascinating case study. Its age, design, and condition present challenges and opportunities for maintaining water security in the face of changing climate conditions. As a vital component of the local irrigation system, Phelps underscores the importance of proactive risk assessment and management to ensure the safety and reliability of critical water infrastructure in Wyoming.
Year Completed |
1911 |
Dam Length |
730 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
MCMURRAY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Nid Storage |
138 |
Structural Height |
28 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
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.
Phelps
Duck Creek