Fairview Extension Reservoir Report
Nearby: Harrington Sandstone Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Fairview Extension, also known as Wardell Reservoir, is a privately owned irrigation structure located in Big Horn, Wyoming.
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Summary
Built in 1972 by designer Thayne M Baldwin, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 37 feet and spans a length of 2250 feet along the Wardell Draw river. With a storage capacity of 2198 acre-feet and a surface area of 141 acres, Fairview Extension serves as a critical water resource for agricultural purposes in the region.
The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 20 feet, and it features a valve outlet gate for water release. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam is inspected every five years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The risk assessment for Fairview Extension is moderate, with measures in place for risk management. The surrounding area relies on this reservoir for consistent water supply, highlighting its importance for both irrigation and climate resilience efforts in the region.
Located 16 miles from Greybull, Fairview Extension is regulated by the State Engineer's Office in Wyoming and falls under Congressional District 00, represented by Liz Cheney. With its historical significance and vital role in water management, Fairview Extension stands as a testament to the ongoing importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climatic conditions.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
2250 |
Dam Height |
37 |
River Or Stream |
WARDELL DRAW |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
141 |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Drainage Area |
4.3 |
Nid Storage |
2198 |
Structural Height |
37 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
37 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bighorn River At Basin
|
996cfs |
Bighorn R At Worland Wyo
|
4350cfs |
Bighorn River At Kane
|
1340cfs |
Greybull River At Meeteetse
|
338cfs |
Shell Creek Near Shell
|
74cfs |
Shoshone River Near Lovell
|
460cfs |
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.
Fairview Extension