Leavitt Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Leavitt is a privately owned dam located in Shell, Wyoming, along the Davis Draw tributary of Beaver Creek.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1956, this earth dam stands at a height of 45 feet and has a storage capacity of 923 acre-feet. Primarily used for irrigation purposes, Leavitt Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region, with a drainage area of 40.5 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 3300 cubic feet per second.
Despite its importance in water supply, Leavitt Dam is classified as having a high hazard potential and a poor condition assessment as of the last inspection in May 2017. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status is unknown, raising concerns about its readiness in the event of a crisis. With a risk assessment rating of moderate (3), there is a pressing need for improved risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the dam for both water resource and climate enthusiasts who value sustainable infrastructure.
As one of the critical structures in Big Horn County, Wyoming, Leavitt Dam's condition and risk profile highlight the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to safeguard water resources and surrounding communities. With its historical significance and operational impact on irrigation, the dam serves as a focal point for stakeholders interested in sustainable water management practices and climate resilience strategies. Addressing the identified issues and implementing necessary improvements will be crucial for preserving the dam's functionality and ensuring a reliable water supply for the region's agricultural and environmental needs.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
800 |
Dam Height |
45 |
River Or Stream |
DAVIS DRAW, TRIB. BEAVER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
49 |
Hydraulic Height |
43 |
Drainage Area |
40.5 |
Nid Storage |
923 |
Structural Height |
45 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
45 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Shell Creek Near Shell
|
74cfs |
Bighorn River At Kane
|
1340cfs |
Bighorn River At Basin
|
1030cfs |
Shell Creek Above Shell Creek Reservoir
|
13cfs |
Little Bighorn River At State Line Nr Wyola Mt
|
84cfs |
West Pass Creek Near Parkman
|
10cfs |
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.
Bald Mountain
Five Springs Falls Lower Campsite 2
Five Springs Falls Lower Campsite 5
Five Springs Falls
Five Springs Falls Lower Host Campsite
Five Springs Falls Lower Campsite 3
Leavitt
White Creek