Summary
Built in 1911, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond maintenance in addition to irrigation. The dam has a storage capacity of 2073 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 145 acres, drawing water from the Little Sandy Creek for its operations.
Despite its historical significance, Elkhorn is facing challenges with a poor condition assessment as of its last inspection in 2017. The dam's hazard potential is rated as low, but its risk assessment is moderate, indicating a need for attention and potential improvements to ensure its long-term safety and functionality. With a valve as its outlet gate and an uncontrolled spillway type, Elkhorn plays a crucial role in water management in the region and requires regular inspections and maintenance to continue serving its intended purposes effectively.
Located in Sublette County, Wyoming, Elkhorn provides valuable water resources for irrigation and other uses in the area. As climate change impacts water availability and usage patterns, the maintenance and upkeep of structures like Elkhorn become increasingly crucial for sustainable water management in the region. With its historical significance and important role in water resource management, Elkhorn represents a key piece of infrastructure for both current and future water enthusiasts and climate advocates to monitor and support.
Year Completed |
1911 |
Dam Length |
110 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE SANDY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
145 |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Drainage Area |
8.9 |
Nid Storage |
2073 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
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Elkhorn
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