Gunst Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Gunst is a privately owned earth dam located in Carbon, Wyoming, near the city of UNNAMED RANCH.


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Summary

Built in 1926 for irrigation purposes, Gunst dam stands at a height of 24 feet and has a storage capacity of 593 acre-feet. The dam spans 2015 feet in length and impounds Beaver Creek, serving as a vital water resource in the area.

Despite its historical significance, Gunst dam is classified as having a poor condition assessment and a significant hazard potential. The last inspection in July 2017 revealed its deteriorating state, prompting concern for its structural integrity. With a moderate risk assessment rating, there is a pressing need for risk management measures to be implemented to ensure the safety of downstream communities and the preservation of the surrounding ecosystem.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts closely monitor the state of Gunst dam, its presence serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between human infrastructure and natural systems. With regulatory oversight from the Wyoming State Engineer's Office and state inspection and enforcement in place, efforts are being made to address the dam's vulnerabilities and mitigate potential risks. As discussions continue on the future of Gunst dam, stakeholders are challenged to balance the historical importance of the structure with the pressing need for safety and sustainability in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1926

Dam Length

2015

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

BEAVER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

57

Hydraulic Height

19

Nid Storage

593

Structural Height

24

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 1

Hazard Potential

Significant

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.