Turner & Swank Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Turner & Swank is a historic irrigation dam located in Wyoming, specifically in the city of MONARCH.
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Summary
Built in 1911, this private earth dam on DRY CREEK serves the primary purpose of irrigation, with a storage capacity of 226 acre-feet. The dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a spillway width of 50 feet, with a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment as of the last inspection in June 2021.
Despite its age, Turner & Swank continues to play a vital role in water resource management in the region, providing essential irrigation water for agricultural activities. The dam is regulated and inspected by the State of Wyoming, ensuring its safe operation for the surrounding community. With its stone core and soil foundation, the dam represents a blend of traditional engineering design and modern regulatory oversight, reflecting the importance of balancing water resource needs with environmental sustainability in the face of climate change challenges.
As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates, the story of Turner & Swank offers a glimpse into the historical development of water infrastructure in Wyoming. With Liz Cheney (R) representing the Congressional District where the dam is located, there is a unique intersection of policy, engineering, and environmental considerations at play. The moderate risk assessment and the presence of emergency preparedness protocols highlight the ongoing efforts to manage potential hazards and ensure the resilience of this important water resource structure in the face of evolving climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1911 |
Dam Length |
460 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
DRY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Nid Storage |
226 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Tongue River Near Dayton
|
48cfs |
East Pass Creek Near Dayton
|
12cfs |
Tongue River At Monarch
|
383cfs |
Goose Creek Near Acme
|
123cfs |
West Pass Creek Near Parkman
|
10cfs |
Prairie Dog Creek Near Acme
|
19cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Connor Battlefield State Park
|
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Tongue River Camp - Amsden Creek WMA
|
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Tongue Canyon Campground
|
Turner & Swank
Bridge At Tongue River Canyon To Burgess Picnic Grounds