Pathfinder Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Pathfinder Dike, located in Natrona, Wyoming, is a federally-owned structure managed by the Bureau of Reclamation with a primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond.


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Summary

Completed in 1909, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 38 feet and stretches 1650 feet in length. It has a storage capacity of 1,016,500 acre-feet and is situated on the North Platte River offstream.

With a high hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Pathfinder Dike plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. It is regulated by the Bureau of Reclamation and undergoes regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency. Despite its age, the dam continues to provide essential services for irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and water supply while also supporting fish and wildlife habitats.

Pathfinder Dike's importance in managing water resources and its significant impact on the environment and local communities make it a vital infrastructure for climate and water resource enthusiasts to study and monitor. Its historical significance, engineering design, and ongoing management practices contribute to the broader understanding of sustainable water resource development in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1909

Dam Length

1650

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

NORTH PLATTE RIVER OFFSTREAM

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

1016500

Structural Height

38

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

38
       
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.