Cardwell Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cardwell, located in Carbon County, Wyoming, stands as a testament to early 20th-century engineering with its Earth-type dam constructed in 1907 for the primary purpose of irrigation.


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Summary

Sitting on the banks of the Little Canyon Creek, this privately owned structure boasts a height of 34 feet and a length of 370 feet, providing a surface area of 16 acres and a storage capacity of 161 acre-feet. Despite its age, Cardwell's dam continues to serve its intended function, albeit with a poor condition assessment and a moderate risk rating.

Managed by the Wyoming State Engineer's Office, Cardwell's dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state authorities, ensuring compliance with safety standards and emergency preparedness protocols. The dam's low hazard potential is offset by its moderate risk rating, prompting ongoing risk management measures to mitigate any potential issues. With Liz Cheney representing the area in Congress, Cardwell remains a vital part of the local irrigation infrastructure, supporting agricultural activities in the region. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Cardwell offers a glimpse into the historical significance and ongoing maintenance of water infrastructure in Wyoming.

Year Completed

1907

Dam Length

370

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

LITTLE CANYON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16

Hydraulic Height

29

Nid Storage

161

Structural Height

35

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

35
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.