Badwater Creek Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Ek Diversion No. 1 Dam Antelope Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Located in Natrona, Wyoming, the Badwater Creek Dam stands as a federal-owned structure managed by the Bureau of Land Management.
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Summary
Built by the C & NW Railroad, this gravity-type dam on the Unamed Draw river boasts a hydraulic height of 11 feet and a structural height of 15 feet, with a length of 911 feet. Serving a primary purpose of "Other," the dam provides a maximum storage capacity of 67.54 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 11.4 acres.
Despite its critical role in water resource management, the Badwater Creek Dam has been flagged with a high hazard potential and poor condition assessment, prompting concerns about its long-term reliability and safety. With no spillway and no outlet gates, the dam's last inspection in July 2019 revealed the need for significant improvements to meet regulatory standards. As a popular destination for water and climate enthusiasts, the dam's risk management measures and emergency preparedness protocols are under scrutiny to ensure the surrounding communities are adequately protected in case of a catastrophic event.
As water scarcity and climate change continue to pose challenges to water resource infrastructure, the Badwater Creek Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive maintenance and risk mitigation strategies. With its unique design and historical significance, the dam stands as a testament to the delicate balance between water management and environmental conservation in the arid landscapes of Wyoming. As stakeholders work towards enhancing the dam's safety and resilience, it remains a focal point for ongoing discussions on sustainable water resource management in the region.
Dam Length |
911 |
River Or Stream |
UNAMED DRAW |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
11.4 |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
67.54 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
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