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Chas Smith, located in Converse, Wyoming, is a private earth dam built in 1905 primarily for irrigation purposes. With a height of 28 feet and a hydraulic height of 23 feet, this structure on Windy Ridge Creek has a storage capacity of 101 acre-feet. Serving multiple functions including fire protection and stock watering, Chas Smith covers a surface area of 7 acres and has a normal storage capacity of 70 acre-feet.
Despite its age, Chas Smith has faced issues with its structural integrity, as it received a poor condition assessment during its last inspection in September 2021. The dam's hazard potential is classified as low, but the risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk. The spillway type is uncontrolled with a width of 10 feet, and the outlet gates include uncontrolled and valve mechanisms. With a moderate risk level and a history dating back over a century, Chas Smith presents a unique case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in dam safety and maintenance in the western United States.
As a privately owned structure regulated by the Wyoming State Engineer's Office, Chas Smith falls under state jurisdiction for permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam is situated in a rural area near the city of ORPHA, with Rep. Liz Cheney representing the congressional district. While the dam has not undergone significant modifications in recent years, its aging condition and poor assessment highlight the importance of regular maintenance and risk management measures to ensure the safety and sustainability of this vital water resource infrastructure.
Year_Completed | 1905 |
Dam_Height | 28 |
River_Or_Stream | WINDY RIDGE CREEK |
Dam_Length | 172 |
Primary_Dam_Type | Earth |
Surface_Area | 7 |
Hydraulic_Height | 23 |
Nid_Storage | 101 |
Structural_Height | 28 |
Outlet_Gates | Uncontrolled, Valve |
Hazard_Potential | Low |
Foundations | Soil |
Nid_Height | 28 |
BOX ELDER CREEK AT BOXELDER | 26cfs |
ROCK CREEK AB KING CANYON CANAL | 44cfs |
LARAMIE RIVER NEAR BOSLER | 1950cfs |
SYBILLE CREEK AB CANAL NO. 3 | 93cfs |
SYBILLE CREEK AB MULE CREEK | 143cfs |
L MEDICINE BOW R AT BOLES SPRING | 32cfs |
POWDER RIVER AT SUSSEX | 144cfs |