Sand Draw Reservoir Report
Nearby: Raper Draw Yates Coal Gulch 24-16
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Sand Draw is a privately owned earth dam located in Arvada, Wyoming, along the Coal Gulch river.
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Summary
Built in 1968 by designer Clifford J Sanders, this dam primarily serves for irrigation purposes, with a maximum storage capacity of 180 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 112 acre-feet. The dam stands at a height of 45 feet, with a spillway width of 50 feet, and is classified as a low hazard potential structure with a poor condition assessment.
Despite its age and condition, Sand Draw remains an essential water resource for the surrounding area, providing vital irrigation water for agricultural activities. The dam's location within the Omaha District and its state-regulated status ensure ongoing maintenance, inspections, and enforcement to mitigate any potential risks. With a moderate risk assessment rating, stakeholders must continue to monitor and manage the dam to uphold its structural integrity and safety for both the community and the environment.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
45 |
River Or Stream |
COAL GULCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
37 |
Nid Storage |
180 |
Structural Height |
45 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
45 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Powder River At Arvada
|
262cfs |
Wild Horse Creek Near Arvada
|
0cfs |
Clear Creek Near Buffalo
|
16cfs |
Piney Creek At Kearny
|
113cfs |
Rock Creek Near Buffalo
|
70cfs |
Clear Creek Near Arvada
|
256cfs |
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.
Sand Draw