Summary
The dam, completed in 1973, is primarily used for irrigation purposes along the Colorado Flats Draw. With a height of 39 feet and a storage capacity of 965 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in providing water for agricultural activities in the area.
Despite its importance, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, with a low hazard potential. The last inspection in July 2019 revealed the need for improvements, indicating a moderate risk level. The spillway, which is uncontrolled, has a width of 40 feet, and the overall structure has a hydraulic height of 32 feet. It is essential for stakeholders to address the maintenance issues promptly to ensure the safety and efficiency of Zezas Irrigation for future water resource management in the region.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, monitoring and managing infrastructure like Zezas Irrigation is crucial for sustainable water use in the face of changing climatic conditions. With proper maintenance and risk management measures, this dam can continue to support agricultural activities while minimizing potential hazards. Collaboration between regulators, owners, and designers is essential to ensure the long-term viability of this vital irrigation system in Wyoming.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
1120 |
Dam Height |
39 |
River Or Stream |
COLORADO FLATS DRAW |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
56 |
Hydraulic Height |
32 |
Nid Storage |
965 |
Structural Height |
43 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
43 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Nf Powder River Below Pass Creek
|
50cfs |
Clear Creek Near Buffalo
|
30cfs |
North Fork Powder River Near Hazelton
|
3cfs |
Rock Creek Near Buffalo
|
70cfs |
Powder River At Sussex
|
144cfs |
Piney Creek At Kearny
|
113cfs |
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.
Zezas Irrigation