Louis Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Louis is a private water resource nestled in the picturesque Crook County of Wyoming, specifically in the city of Hulett.


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Summary

This Earth dam, completed in 1959, stands at a height of 26 feet and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and as a small fish pond. With a storage capacity of 31 acre-feet and a surface area of 8.3 acres, Louis plays a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance of the area.

Despite its importance, Louis is currently in poor condition as assessed in July 2019, with a low hazard potential. Regular inspections are conducted every 5 years to ensure its continued safety and functionality. Situated on the Oak Draw river, Louis provides a source of water for the surrounding area while also serving as a recreational spot for fishing and wildlife observation. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and upkeep of Louis will be crucial to sustain its ecosystem services for future generations.

Louis's location in a Congressional District represented by Liz Cheney (R) underscores its significance as a water infrastructure asset in Wyoming. With state regulation, inspection, and enforcement in place, Louis is managed to meet water resource needs while mitigating potential risks. As water enthusiasts and climate advocates, understanding and supporting the maintenance and improvement of structures like Louis are essential for ensuring sustainable water management in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

588

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

OAK DRAW

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8.3

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

0.3

Nid Storage

31

Structural Height

26

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

26
       
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.