Paddy No. 2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Paddy No.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

2, located in Niobrara, Wyoming, is a private earth dam constructed in 1963 by JOHN A LAMBERT for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes. This dam on S Paddy Draw has a height of 25 feet, a hydraulic height of 19 feet, and a structural height of 30 feet, with a storage capacity of 84 acre-feet. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled with a width of 45 feet, and it is equipped with one valve outlet gate.

Despite its low hazard potential, Paddy No. 2 is currently in poor condition as of the last inspection in May 2018. The dam's risk assessment indicates a moderate risk level (3), and it is under the jurisdiction of the Wyoming State Engineer's Office for regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Given its importance for fire protection and water resource management in the region, efforts may be needed to address the dam's poor condition and ensure its continued effectiveness in mitigating risks and supporting local ecosystems.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Paddy No. 2 serves as a vital structure in the management of water resources in the area. Its location in Edgemont, SD, and association with the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers make it a key asset for local stakeholders and agencies. With proper maintenance and management, Paddy No. 2 can continue to fulfill its role in providing essential water storage for fire protection, livestock, and wildlife while minimizing risks associated with potential dam failures.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

238

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

S PADDY DRAW

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

19

Nid Storage

84

Structural Height

30

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

30
       
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.