C. Thomsen Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 3, 2026

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Summary

Thomsen, also known as Custer Lake, is a Federal-owned water resource located in Park, Wyoming. This earth dam, designed by Howard F. Bell in 1930, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, small fish pond, and irrigation. The dam stands at a height of 13 feet with a hydraulic height of 10 feet, providing a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 22 acres.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is regularly inspected by the regulatory agencies in Wyoming to ensure its fair condition and continued safety. The spillway, classified as "Uncontrolled", is 8 feet wide and capable of managing water discharge. The dam is equipped with other controlled outlet gates to manage water releases as needed. C. Thomsen is an important structure for water resource management in the area, contributing to both agricultural and environmental needs.

In the event of an emergency, the dam has protocols in place to manage potential risks, with a moderate risk assessment rating. With Liz Cheney (R) representing the Congressional District in which C. Thomsen is located, the dam plays a crucial role in providing water for various uses while ensuring the safety and security of the surrounding community. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, C. Thomsen serves as a fascinating example of how infrastructure can support both human and environmental needs in a sustainable manner.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

118

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

THOMSEN DRAW

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

22

Hydraulic Height

10

Nid Storage

80

Structural Height

13

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

13
       
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.