Thomas No. 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Thomas No.


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Summary

1 is a privately-owned earth dam located in Hulett, Wyoming, along Buffalo Creek. Completed in 1914 for the primary purpose of irrigation, this structure stands at a height of 22 feet with a hydraulic height of 17 feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is currently in poor condition, last assessed in 2017.

With a storage capacity of 168 acre-feet, Thomas No. 1 covers a surface area of 18 acres and has a spillway width of 80 feet. The dam is regulated by the Wyoming State Engineer's Office, with state inspection, permitting, and enforcement in place. While the dam has not undergone any significant modifications in recent years, its risk assessment is rated as moderate (3), indicating a need for continued monitoring and management measures to ensure the safety of downstream communities and the surrounding environment.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role of structures like Thomas No. 1 in managing water resources is crucial. By staying informed about the condition and regulation of dams such as this one, enthusiasts can contribute to efforts aimed at safeguarding water supplies, mitigating flood risks, and promoting sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Year Completed

1914

Dam Length

272

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

BUFFALO CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

18

Hydraulic Height

17

Nid Storage

168

Structural Height

22

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

22
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.