Rate & Huson Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rate & Huson, also known as Enlto 9286r, is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Sheridan, Wyoming.


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Summary

Built in 1910 on Pin Head Creek, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and has a storage capacity of 101 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam is still in use for irrigation purposes and is regulated by the Wyoming State Engineer's Office, with regular inspections and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and functionality.

The dam's condition assessment in 2017 rated it as poor, with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment. The spillway, an uncontrolled type with a width of 20 feet, serves as the primary outlet for excess water. With a surface area of 8 acres and a drainage area of 0, Rate & Huson remains an integral part of the local water resource infrastructure. However, the dam's poor condition highlights the need for ongoing maintenance and potential upgrades to mitigate risks and ensure its long-term effectiveness in water management.

As a key component of the irrigation system in the region, the Rate & Huson dam plays a crucial role in water distribution and agricultural activities. With Liz Cheney (R) representing the Congressional District 00 in Wyoming, the stakeholders involved must prioritize the dam's maintenance and safety to sustain its functionality and prevent any potential hazards. Despite its age and poor condition assessment, Rate & Huson stands as a testament to the enduring importance of water resources management in the face of evolving climate challenges.

Year Completed

1910

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

PIN HEAD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

17

Nid Storage

101

Structural Height

22

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

22
       
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.