Bush Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 5, 2026

Bush Creek, also known as John Hay, is a private water resource located in Sweetwater, Wyoming.


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Summary

This earth dam, designed by J.W.WISDA and completed in 1945, serves primarily for irrigation purposes. With a height of 22 feet and a hydraulic height of 17 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 28,290 acre-feet and a surface area of 2,629 acres.

Despite its low hazard potential, Bush Creek's condition assessment is rated as poor, indicating a need for maintenance and improvements. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 250 feet and two valve outlet gates. The last inspection in 2017 revealed the need for further attention to ensure the dam's safety and functionality. The risk assessment for Bush Creek is moderate, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to protect the surrounding area and downstream communities.

Located in the Omaha District, Bush Creek is under state regulation and jurisdiction, with oversight by the Wyoming State Engineer's Office. The dam's condition, inspection frequency, and emergency preparedness are crucial aspects that water resource and climate enthusiasts should monitor to ensure the continued safety and sustainability of this essential irrigation infrastructure in Wyoming.

Year Completed

1945

Dam Length

4900

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

BUSH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2629

Hydraulic Height

17

Nid Storage

28290

Structural Height

22

Outlet Gates

Valve - 2

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

22
       
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.