Walker Reservoir Report
Nearby: East No. 1 Beardsley Johnson No. 1
Last Updated: March 3, 2026
Walker is a private dam located in Niobrara, Wyoming, with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.
Summary
Built in 1972, this earth dam stands at 21 feet tall and spans 533 feet in length, holding a maximum storage capacity of 103 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Zimmerman Draw, under the jurisdiction of the Wyoming State Engineer's Office, and is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state.
With a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Walker poses a moderate risk according to the data. The spillway is uncontrolled with a width of 206 feet, and the dam is equipped with one other controlled outlet gate. Despite having a drainage area of 0, the dam covers a surface area of 8.8 acres and plays a crucial role in managing floodwaters in the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Walker offers a fascinating glimpse into the infrastructure designed to mitigate flood risks in the area. With its strategic location and design features, this dam serves as a vital component in the larger water management system, showcasing the importance of effective regulatory oversight and maintenance practices to ensure the safety and functionality of such critical structures.
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15-Day Weather Outlook
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
533 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
ZIMMERMAN DRAW |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8.8 |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Nid Storage |
103 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Walker