Buck Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Buck is a private water resource located in Guernsey, Wyoming, serving multiple purposes such as fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond maintenance.


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Summary

The dam, completed in 1968, stands at a height of 29 feet and has a hydraulic height of 24 feet, providing a storage capacity of 45 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Buck is regulated and inspected by the state of Wyoming to ensure its safety and functionality.

Situated along Gedney Draw, Buck's uncontrolled spillway boasts a width of 175 feet, ensuring proper water discharge during peak flow events. The dam's structural integrity is reinforced by its earth core and stone foundation, indicating a sturdy construction designed to withstand various hydraulic pressures. With a moderate risk assessment rating and a history of regular inspections dating back to 2019, Buck remains a crucial water resource for the surrounding community while maintaining a strong focus on safety and maintenance protocols.

As a key component of the local water infrastructure, Buck plays a vital role in water management and conservation efforts in Platte County, Wyoming. With its primary purpose centered around providing essential services like fire protection and stock watering, this private dam serves as a reliable source of water for both human and environmental needs. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate Buck's contribution to the region's water supply and its adherence to state regulations to ensure sustainable water usage and safety for future generations.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

GEDNEY DRAW

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

24

Nid Storage

45

Structural Height

29

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

29
       
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.