Okie Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Okie is a private irrigation dam located in Lost Cabin, Wyoming, along the Badwater Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1898, this earth dam stands at 26 feet high and spans 1240 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 283 acre-feet. Despite its age, Okie is still in use for irrigation purposes, with a normal storage capacity of 213 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 250 cubic feet per second.

However, the condition assessment of Okie is rated as poor, with a significant hazard potential. The dam is classified as having a moderate risk level, with a need for risk management measures to be implemented. The last inspection took place in June 2017, with a scheduled inspection frequency of every 5 years. The dam is regulated by the Wyoming State Engineer's Office, with permitting, inspection, and enforcement protocols in place.

In the event of an emergency, Okie does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) prepared, and the condition assessment raises concerns about its safety. The spillway type is uncontrolled, with a spillway width of 10 feet. With Liz Cheney representing the Congressional District, there is a need for continued monitoring and maintenance of Okie to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and water resources in Fremont County, Wyoming.

Year Completed

1898

Dam Length

1240

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

BADWATER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

27

Hydraulic Height

21

Drainage Area

0.8

Nid Storage

283

Structural Height

26

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 1

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

26
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.