Chas Smith Reservoir Report
Nearby: Little Boxelder No. 3 Elsie
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Chas Smith, located in Converse, Wyoming, is a private earth dam built in 1905 primarily for irrigation purposes.
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Summary
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 Length |
172 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
WINDY RIDGE CREEK |
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 |
Seasonal Comparison
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Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Chas Smith
Upper Boxelder Canyon
Canyon
Deer Creek