Raper Draw Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Raper Draw, located in Johnson County, Wyoming, is a privately owned dam with a primary purpose of serving as a source for fire protection, stock watering, and a small fish pond.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1959, this earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and has a hydraulic height of 24 feet, with a length of 231 feet. It has a storage capacity of 72 acre-feet, providing essential resources for the surrounding area.

Despite its low hazard potential, Raper Draw is currently rated as being in poor condition as of the last inspection in June 2018. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, with a width of 24 feet. The risk assessment for this structure is moderate, indicating a level 3 risk. Even though there are no associated structures or outlet gates, the dam plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem and water resource management.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Raper Draw to be an intriguing site due to its historical significance, unique design features, and the potential impact of its condition on the surrounding environment. As a privately owned structure regulated by the State Engineer's Office, this dam serves as a valuable resource for fire protection and livestock management in the area. Given its moderate risk rating and poor condition assessment, continued monitoring and maintenance are essential to ensure the safety and longevity of this important water resource infrastructure.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

231

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

RAPER DRAW

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

24

Nid Storage

72

Structural Height

29

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

29
       
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.