Carrico No. 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Carrico No.


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Summary

1, located in Niobrara, Wyoming, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1959 for purposes such as fire protection, stock, and small fish pond. With a height of 27 feet and a hydraulic height of 22 feet, this dam has a storage capacity of 45 acre-feet and a surface area of 3 acres. While it has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in July 2020, the risk assessment for Carrico No. 1 is moderate.

Managed by the Nebraska branch of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Carrico No. 1 poses no threat of inundation and has an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 50 feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is regularly inspected every 5 years to ensure its structural integrity and compliance with state regulations. With Liz Cheney (R) as the representative of Congressional District 00 in Wyoming, Carrico No. 1 stands as a vital resource for water storage and fire protection in the area.

As an essential feature in the Carrico Draw area, this dam serves not only as a water resource but also as a protective measure for the local community and wildlife. With its strategic location in Edgemont, S.D., Carrico No. 1 plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the region and safeguarding against potential risks associated with water scarcity and natural disasters. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and regulation of structures like Carrico No. 1 are essential for ensuring the sustainability and resilience of the surrounding ecosystem.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

362

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

CARRICO DRAW

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

22

Nid Storage

45

Structural Height

27

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

27
       
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.