Uhl Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Uhl, also known as Elk Ranch Reservoir, is a privately owned water resource located in Moose, Wyoming.


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Summary

The dam was designed by John C. Simpson and serves primarily for irrigation purposes, with additional benefits for fish and wildlife. Completed in 1948, the earth dam has a height of 20 feet and a maximum storage capacity of 756 acre-feet, with a normal storage of 543 acre-feet.

Situated on Spread Creek in Teton County, Uhl covers a surface area of 83 acres and has a spillway width of 30 feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, with the last inspection conducted in August 2018. The risk assessment for Uhl indicates a moderate risk level (3), highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.

With a history dating back over 70 years, Uhl represents a vital water management asset in the region. As a key component of the local irrigation infrastructure, it plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities and enhancing the natural environment. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and upkeep of structures like Uhl are essential for ensuring sustainable water use and resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1948

Dam Length

700

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

SPREAD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

83

Hydraulic Height

14

Nid Storage

756

Structural Height

20

Outlet Gates

Vertical Lift - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

20
       
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.