Durham Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Durham is a privately owned Earth type dam located in Campbell, Wyoming, near the city of HULETT, along the BELLE FOURCHE river.


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Summary

Completed in 1973, this dam serves multiple purposes including irrigation, fire protection, and stock or small fish pond. With a height of 22 feet and a length of 1365 feet, Durham has a storage capacity of 502 acre-feet and a surface area of 52 acres.

Despite its low hazard potential, Durham is currently assessed to be in poor condition as of April 2021, with a moderate risk rating. The dam has uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, and is inspected every 5 years. The dam's primary designer is MARVIN SCOTT and it falls under the jurisdiction of the Wyoming State Engineer's Office. Although it has not been modified in recent years, Durham remains an important structure for water resource management in the region, with Liz Cheney (R) representing the area in Congress.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Durham to be a fascinating engineering feat, showcasing the intersection of human ingenuity and natural water management. As a critical component of the local irrigation system, Durham plays a vital role in supporting agricultural activities in the area. With its unique design features and historical significance, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

1365

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

BELLE FOURCHE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

52

Hydraulic Height

17

Nid Storage

502

Structural Height

22

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 0

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

22
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.