Blake-Denton No. 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Blake-Denton No.


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Summary

1 is a privately owned Earth dam located in Washakie, Wyoming, specifically in the city of Worland along Gooseberry Creek. Built in 1916 for the primary purpose of irrigation, this dam stands at a height of 15 feet with a hydraulic height of 10 feet and a length of 1953 feet. It has a storage capacity of 265 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 184 acre-feet, serving as a crucial water resource for the surrounding area.

Despite its age, Blake-Denton No. 1 has been well-maintained, with a low hazard potential and a fair condition assessment as of the last inspection in June 2021. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 18 feet and an outlet gate for water release. While it poses a moderate risk (3) according to the risk assessment, the dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures are not specified. Overall, Blake-Denton No. 1 stands as a testament to early 20th-century water management practices in Wyoming and continues to play a vital role in sustaining local irrigation needs.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Blake-Denton No. 1 offers a glimpse into the historical development of irrigation infrastructure in the region, highlighting the importance of maintaining and monitoring aging dams for continued water security. Its location in a picturesque setting along Gooseberry Creek adds to the allure of this structure, showcasing the intersection of human engineering with natural landscapes. With its regulated state permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes in place, Blake-Denton No. 1 exemplifies responsible dam ownership and management practices in ensuring the safety and sustainability of water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1916

Dam Length

1953

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

GOOSEBERRY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

37

Hydraulic Height

10

Nid Storage

265

Structural Height

15

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

15
       
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.