Kelly Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Kelly Dam, located in the picturesque area of ARVADA, Wyoming, is a private irrigation structure built in 1973 along Kelly Creek.


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Summary

Designed by Marvin E Young, this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and has a storage capacity of 109 acre-feet. Despite its significant hazard potential and poor condition assessment, it serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and irrigation.

The dam, with a spillway width of 150 feet, is regulated by the State Engineer's Office and undergoes regular inspections. However, with a risk assessment rating of moderate, there is a need for improved risk management measures. The surrounding area, part of Johnson County, Wyoming, enjoys the benefits of the dam's surface area of 11 acres and drainage area, though maximum discharge capacity is currently listed as zero.

Kelly Dam's location in the Omaha District underlines its importance for water resource management in the region. As a focal point for water enthusiasts and climate advocates, the dam's history, design, and ongoing maintenance offer valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities of managing water resources in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

950

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

KELLY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Hydraulic Height

21

Nid Storage

109

Structural Height

26

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 0

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

26
       
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.