Thompson Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Thompson is a privately owned earth dam located in Saratoga, Wyoming, on the Rye Gulch stream.


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Summary

Completed in 1923 for irrigation purposes, the dam stands at a height of 23 feet and has a storage capacity of 104 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition is assessed as poor, highlighting the need for maintenance and potential upgrades to ensure its long-term stability.

The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 40 feet and outlet gates consisting of a single valve. With a surface area of 17 acres and a drainage area of 1.5 square miles, Thompson serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area. However, its poor condition and moderate risk assessment underscore the importance of regular inspections and risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards and safeguard this crucial infrastructure.

While Thompson currently poses a moderate risk level, proactive measures such as regular inspections and maintenance can help improve its condition and reduce potential risks. As a key component of the irrigation infrastructure in Carbon County, Wyoming, Thompson plays a crucial role in water resource management. By addressing the dam's poor condition and implementing necessary upgrades, stakeholders can ensure the long-term viability and safety of this essential water storage facility in the region.

Year Completed

1923

Dam Length

510

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

RYE GULCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17

Hydraulic Height

17

Drainage Area

1.5

Nid Storage

104

Structural Height

23

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

23
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.