Swan Creek No. 7 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Swan Creek No. 2 Belknap Creek No. 4
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Swan Creek No.
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Summary
7 is a historic Earth dam located in Cody, Wyoming, along the Swan Creek. Built in 1911 for irrigation purposes, this structure stands at a height of 22 feet and has a storage capacity of 121 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam is still in use and is regulated by the State of Wyoming, with regular inspections ensuring its safety and functionality. The dam is equipped with a valve outlet gate and an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 80 feet, serving as a low hazard potential structure with a poor condition assessment.
Although Swan Creek No. 7 may have a moderate risk level, its unique design and location make it an essential component of the local water resource management system. The dam's primary purpose of irrigation serves the surrounding agricultural community, ensuring a reliable water supply for crops and livestock. Its stone core and soil foundation contribute to its longevity, while its proximity to the Swan Creek provides a picturesque setting for water and climate enthusiasts to observe the intersection of human engineering and natural waterways.
With its historical significance and ongoing operational importance, Swan Creek No. 7 stands as a testament to the ingenuity of early water resource management in Wyoming. As climate change impacts water availability and usage patterns, structures like this Earth dam play a crucial role in sustaining agricultural activities and preserving local ecosystems. Through continued monitoring and maintenance, Swan Creek No. 7 remains a valuable asset for the community and a symbol of the enduring connection between water resources and climate resilience.
Year Completed |
1911 |
Dam Length |
108 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
SWAN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
121 |
Structural Height |
22 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
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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