Old Smuggler Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Old Smuggler is a privately owned dam located in Wyoming, specifically in Albany County near the city of Torrington.
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Summary
Completed in 1956, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and serves primarily for irrigation purposes along the Shirley Draw river or stream. With a storage capacity of 92 acre-feet and a surface area of 9 acres, Old Smuggler plays a crucial role in regulating water flow for agricultural activities in the region.
Despite its important function, Old Smuggler is currently assessed as being in poor condition, with a low hazard potential. The dam features a single slide gate as its outlet control and an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 75 feet. Inspection reports indicate that the dam requires attention to ensure its continued safe operation and effectiveness in water management. With the risk assessment rated as moderate, there is a need for proactive risk management measures to mitigate potential issues and safeguard the surrounding area from any adverse impacts.
In the realm of water resource and climate governance, Old Smuggler falls under state regulation and inspection by the Wyoming State Engineer's Office. As a vital infrastructure for water supply in the region, it is essential for stakeholders to prioritize maintenance and upkeep to prevent any potential hazards or disruptions to the local water system. With a focus on sustainability and resilience in the face of changing climate conditions, ensuring the proper functioning of dams like Old Smuggler is crucial for the long-term well-being of both the environment and the communities that depend on them for water resources.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
490 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
SHIRLEY DRAW |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Nid Storage |
92 |
Structural Height |
22 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
22 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Tie City
|
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Tie City Campground
|
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Yellow Pine
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Yellow Pine Campground
|
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Pole Creek Dispersed Campground
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