O S W Reservoir Report
Nearby: Waterworks No. 3 Battle Axe
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
O S W, also known as Burlington, is a private irrigation dam located in Lysite, Wyoming, along the Badwater Creek.
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Summary
Completed in 1912, this earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and has a normal storage capacity of 177 acre-feet. With a hazard potential rated as high and a poor condition assessment as of June 2017, O S W poses significant challenges in terms of maintenance and safety.
Despite being state-regulated and having state jurisdiction, O S W lacks federal oversight and funding. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 125 feet and one uncontrolled outlet gate. Its purpose is solely for irrigation, serving the surrounding agricultural lands. However, with a drainage area of 2.1 square miles and a maximum discharge of 900 cfs, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
Given its age and condition, O S W presents a moderate risk and requires regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity. With its historical significance dating back over a century, this private irrigation dam remains a key component of water management in Fremont County, Wyoming.
Year Completed |
1912 |
Dam Length |
645 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
BADWATER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
23 |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Drainage Area |
2.1 |
Nid Storage |
360 |
Structural Height |
28 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Wind R Bl Boysen Res Wyo
|
819cfs |
Fivemile Creek Near Shoshoni
|
38cfs |
Wind River Ab Boysen Reservoir
|
555cfs |
Middle Fork Powder River Near Barnum
|
6cfs |
Wind River At Riverton
|
418cfs |
Little Wind River Near Riverton
|
142cfs |
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.
O S W