Little Pierce Reservoir Report

Nearby: Pierce Lace

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Little Pierce is a privately owned earth dam located in Albany, Wyoming, near the Como Bluffs Fish Hatchery.


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Summary

Built in 1941, this structure on Dry Creek stands at a height of 24 feet and has a storage capacity of 62 acre-feet. While its primary purpose is listed as "Other," the dam serves as a crucial water resource for the area, with a normal storage capacity of 49 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 937 cubic feet per second.

Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, Little Pierce currently has a poor condition assessment as of its last inspection in August 2018. The dam, with a hydraulic height of 21 feet and a length of 420 feet, is in need of maintenance and improvements to ensure its structural integrity and continued functionality. With a moderate risk assessment rating of (3), it is crucial to address the issues identified and implement risk management measures to safeguard the surrounding community and environment.

Given its location and significance in the region, Little Pierce presents a valuable opportunity for stakeholders to collaborate on enhancing its safety and resilience. With state regulatory oversight in place, including permitting, inspection, and enforcement measures, there is a framework for addressing the dam's deficiencies and implementing necessary upgrades. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is vital to advocate for the proper maintenance and management of structures like Little Pierce to ensure the sustainable utilization of this essential resource.

Year Completed

1941

Dam Length

420

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

DRY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Hydraulic Height

21

Nid Storage

62

Structural Height

24

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

24
       
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.