Finley Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Finley, located in Carbon County, Wyoming, is a privately owned Earth dam constructed in 1977 by designer Roger J Smith.


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Summary

Situated along Spring Creek Gulch in Saratoga, this dam serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond with a primary purpose of supporting local flora and fauna. With a height of 30 feet and a storage capacity of 310 acre-feet, Finley covers a surface area of 39 acres and stands as a vital resource for recreation and conservation efforts in the region.

Despite its low hazard potential, the dam at Finley is currently assessed as being in poor condition, highlighting the need for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity. With a spillway width of 12 feet and valve-operated outlet gates, the dam poses a moderate risk (level 3) in terms of potential hazards. While it has not been modified in recent years and lacks updated emergency action plans, Finley remains a key feature in the local landscape, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts who appreciate its ecological significance and recreational opportunities.

Overall, Finley's role as a Fish and Wildlife Pond underscores its importance in supporting biodiversity and enhancing the natural environment. As part of ongoing risk management measures, it is crucial for stakeholders to prioritize the maintenance and upkeep of this dam to safeguard its functionality and ensure the safety of surrounding communities. By staying vigilant and proactive in addressing any potential issues, Finley can continue to fulfill its vital role in promoting conservation efforts and providing a sustainable water resource for both wildlife and visitors alike.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

246

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

SPRING CREEK GULCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

39

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

310

Structural Height

30

Outlet Gates

Valve - 2

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

30
       
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.