Sand Mesa No. 2 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Sand Mesa No. 1 Lake Cameahwait
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Sand Mesa No.
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Summary
2 is a Federal-owned Earth dam located in Fremont County, Wyoming, specifically in the city of Boysen. Completed in 1977, this dam serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond along the Sand Mesa Drain Trail, with a storage capacity of 796 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 268 acre-feet. The dam stands at a height of 11 feet, with a structural height of 11 feet and a hydraulic height of 9 feet, spanning a length of 2400 feet and covering a surface area of 88 acres.
Managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, Sand Mesa No. 2 is regulated and inspected by the same agency, ensuring its safe operation and compliance with state jurisdiction and permitting requirements. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and one other controlled outlet gate. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is currently assessed as being in a condition where information on its state is not available, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential risks and ensure the safety of the surrounding area.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the significance of Sand Mesa No. 2 in providing vital habitat for fish and wildlife in the region, while also recognizing the importance of proper dam management and maintenance to safeguard against potential hazards. The dam's location in a picturesque setting along the Sand Mesa Drain Trail adds to its value as both a functional infrastructure for water management and a harmonious element within the natural landscape. As a part of the broader water resource infrastructure in Wyoming, Sand Mesa No. 2 showcases the intersection of human engineering and environmental stewardship in ensuring a sustainable balance for both aquatic ecosystems and local communities.
Year Completed |
1977 |
Dam Length |
2400 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
SAND MESA DRAIN TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
88 |
Hydraulic Height |
9 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
796 |
Structural Height |
11 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
11 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Wind R Bl Boysen Res Wyo
|
819cfs |
Fivemile Creek Near Shoshoni
|
83cfs |
Wind River Ab Boysen Reservoir
|
510cfs |
Wind River At Riverton
|
366cfs |
Little Wind River Near Riverton
|
142cfs |
Wind River Near Kinnear
|
346cfs |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Tough Creek Campground
|
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Lake Cameahwait - USBR
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Boysen State Park
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Shoshoni City Park
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Sand Mesa No. 2