Thomas Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Thomas is a private irrigation dam located in Park County, Wyoming, specifically in the city of Meeteetse.
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Summary
Built in 1949, this earth dam stands at a height of 56 feet and has a storage capacity of 1104 acre-feet. Despite its historical significance in providing water for agricultural purposes, Thomas has been assessed as being in poor condition, with a low hazard potential and moderate risk rating.
Situated on the N Rawhide Creek, Thomas serves as a crucial water resource for the surrounding area, with a spillway width of 20 feet and a single valve outlet gate. While it is state-regulated and regularly inspected, concerns have been raised about its structural integrity and overall maintenance. With Liz Cheney representing the Congressional District in which Thomas resides, there is a growing need for enhanced risk management measures and potential rehabilitation efforts to ensure the safety and sustainability of this vital water infrastructure.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Thomas presents an intriguing case study of a historic irrigation dam facing challenges related to aging infrastructure and risk assessment. As discussions around dam safety and resilience continue to evolve, the future of Thomas and its role in water management in Wyoming will undoubtedly be a topic of interest and concern. With its unique design and location, Thomas serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive maintenance and monitoring in ensuring the long-term viability of water infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1949 |
Dam Length |
900 |
Dam Height |
56 |
River Or Stream |
N RAWHIDE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
45 |
Hydraulic Height |
51 |
Nid Storage |
1104 |
Structural Height |
56 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
56 |
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.
Thomas
Meeteetse Creek