Ella Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ella is a private irrigation dam located in Albany, Wyoming, along the Middle Sybille Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1963, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a length of 468 feet, with a storage capacity of 108 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is currently in poor condition, as assessed in June 2020, with a moderate risk level.

Owned privately and regulated by the State of Wyoming, Ella serves primarily for irrigation purposes, with an uncontrolled spillway and one outlet gate. Its geographical coordinates are 41.6286 latitude and -105.4476 longitude, making it a critical infrastructure in the water management system of the area. The dam's poor condition and moderate risk highlight the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its long-term stability and safety.

Although Ella may seem unassuming with its low hazard potential, its poor condition and moderate risk level underscore the need for proactive risk management measures. Climate enthusiasts and water resource experts should pay attention to the maintenance and inspection frequency of dams like Ella to prevent potential failures and ensure the safety and sustainability of water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

468

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

MIDDLE SYBILLE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

108

Structural Height

24

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

24
       
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.