Rathbun Irrigation No. 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 3, 2026

Rathbun Irrigation No.


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Summary

1 is a privately owned irrigation facility located in Kirby, Hot Springs County, Wyoming. This earth dam structure, completed in 1956, serves as a crucial resource for agricultural water management in the region. The dam has a height of 29 feet and a storage capacity of 38 acre-feet, providing essential water for irrigation purposes along Dry Fork W Kirby Creek.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Rathbun Irrigation No. 1 is regulated by the state of Wyoming and subject to regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. The dam features a slide gate outlet system and an uncontrolled spillway, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. While the facility has not been significantly modified in recent years, it remains an important component of the local water resource infrastructure, contributing to the sustainable management of water resources in the area.

Managed by the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Rathbun Irrigation No. 1 plays a vital role in supporting agricultural activities in Hot Springs County. With its strategic location and reliable water supply, this irrigation facility continues to be a cornerstone of the region's water management efforts, highlighting the importance of maintaining and monitoring such infrastructure for the benefit of both the community and the environment.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

280

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

DRY FORK W KIRBY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

24

Nid Storage

38

Structural Height

29

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

29
       
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.