Bell Reservoir Report
Nearby: Iron Mountain Strong No. 4
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Bell, located in Albany, Wyoming, is a privately owned earth dam that was completed in 1957 for irrigation purposes on the Middle Chugwater Creek.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Designed by JACK NOBLITT, the dam stands at 38 feet high with a hydraulic height of 33 feet and a length of 620 feet. It has a storage capacity of 479 acre-feet and serves as a vital water supply source for the surrounding area.
Despite its importance, Bell is currently assessed as being in poor condition, with a low hazard potential but a moderate risk level. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 80 feet and a single slide gate for outlet control. The last inspection was conducted in August 2020, with an inspection frequency of every 5 years. With its location in a relatively remote area, the dam plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities and water supply needs in the region.
As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and upkeep of dams like Bell become increasingly crucial to ensure the sustainability and resilience of water infrastructure. With its historical significance and role in supporting irrigation and water supply, Bell serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible dam management in the face of evolving climatic challenges.
Year Completed |
1957 |
Dam Length |
620 |
Dam Height |
38 |
River Or Stream |
MIDDLE CHUGWATER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
41 |
Hydraulic Height |
33 |
Drainage Area |
54.1 |
Nid Storage |
479 |
Structural Height |
38 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
38 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Sybille Creek Ab Mule Creek
|
143cfs |
Laramie River Near Bosler
|
1950cfs |
Laramie River At Laramie
|
48cfs |
Sybille Creek Ab Canal No. 3
|
93cfs |
Crow Creek At 19th Street
|
3cfs |
Little Laramie River Near Filmore
|
671cfs |
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.
Bell