Summary
Constructed in 1953 by designer Thane H. Baldwin, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet with a hydraulic height of 25 feet and a length of 293 feet. The dam serves the primary purpose of irrigation, providing a maximum storage capacity of 118 acre-feet and a normal storage of 78 acre-feet across a surface area of 7 acres.
Despite its low hazard potential, Ewen - Pence Gulch is currently in poor condition as assessed during the last inspection in October 2017. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and one other controlled outlet gate, with a moderate risk rating assigned. While the dam meets state regulatory requirements for permitting, inspection, and enforcement, there is a need for improved risk management measures to address its deteriorating condition. As a significant water resource structure in the area, efforts may be required to ensure the long-term safety and functionality of Ewen - Pence Gulch for both irrigation purposes and climate resilience.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
293 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
PENCE GULCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Nid Storage |
118 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Shell Creek Near Shell
|
74cfs |
Bighorn River At Basin
|
1030cfs |
Bighorn River At Kane
|
1340cfs |
Shell Creek Above Shell Creek Reservoir
|
13cfs |
Little Bighorn River At State Line Nr Wyola Mt
|
84cfs |
Tongue River Near Dayton
|
48cfs |
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.
Ewen - Pence Gulch
White Creek
Trapper Creek