Summary
Worthington. This structure serves multiple purposes, including fire protection, stock, and a small fish pond, with a capacity to store up to 232 acre-feet of water. The dam stands at a height of 16 feet and has a spillway width of 25 feet, with a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment.
Situated on a branch of the South Powder River, Cooper dam plays a crucial role in providing water for various uses in the area. Despite being regulated by the state and undergoing regular inspections, the dam's risk assessment is rated as moderate. The surrounding area, including the city of Arvada, benefits from the water storage and protection provided by Cooper dam, ensuring a stable water supply for fire emergencies, livestock, and recreational purposes.
As climate change impacts water resources, Cooper dam remains a vital piece of infrastructure in Wyoming. With its historical significance and contribution to local water management, enthusiasts of water resources and climate change can appreciate the role that Cooper plays in ensuring water security and environmental sustainability in the region.
Year Completed |
1933 |
Dam Length |
1450 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
BRANCH OF SOUTH POWDER RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
21 |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Nid Storage |
232 |
Structural Height |
16 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Cooper