Joss Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Joss is a privately owned Earth dam located in Lance Creek, Wyoming, with a primary purpose of irrigation.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1918, this structure stands at a height of 24 feet and has a hydraulic height of 19 feet, offering a storage capacity of 538 acre-feet. The dam spans 1060 feet in length and has a spillway width of 200 feet, operating with an uncontrolled spillway type.

Despite its low hazard potential, Joss is currently assessed to be in poor condition as of the last inspection in June 2018. With a moderate risk rating, the dam requires attention to ensure its continued functionality and safety. The inspection frequency is set at 5 years, indicating the need for regular monitoring and maintenance to mitigate any potential risks. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Joss presents an intriguing case study in the management and maintenance of aging irrigation infrastructure in a dynamic environmental landscape.

Year Completed

1918

Dam Length

1060

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

LANCE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

50

Hydraulic Height

19

Nid Storage

538

Structural Height

24

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

24
       
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.