Hugh Mcdonald Reservoir Report
Nearby: Morrison No. 2 Richard No. 1
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Hugh McDonald Dam, located in Chugwater, Wyoming, serves multiple purposes including irrigation, fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond maintenance.
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Summary
Built in 1949, this private-owned Earth dam stands at a height of 37 feet and has a storage capacity of 173 acre-feet. The dam spans 518 feet in length and is situated on the North Chugwater Creek, within the Platte County of Wyoming.
Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2021 revealed poor structural health, prompting the need for regular inspections and maintenance. With a moderate risk rating of 3, the dam is under the jurisdiction of the Wyoming State Engineer's Office, which oversees permitting, inspections, and enforcement. The presence of an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 120 feet adds an additional layer of complexity to the dam's operation and safety measures.
Given its vital role in water management and agricultural activities in the region, water resource and climate enthusiasts should closely monitor the maintenance and risk management efforts surrounding the Hugh McDonald Dam. With its historical significance and multiple functionalities, the dam represents a critical piece of infrastructure that requires regular attention and investment to ensure the safety and sustainability of its operations.
Year Completed |
1949 |
Dam Length |
518 |
Dam Height |
37 |
River Or Stream |
NORTH CHUGWATER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
32 |
Nid Storage |
173 |
Structural Height |
37 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
37 |
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.
Hugh Mcdonald