Boysen Reservoir Report
Nearby: Sand Mesa No. 2 Sand Mesa No. 1
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Boysen Dam, located on the Wind River in Fremont, Wyoming, is a key federal structure designed by Richard Anesi and owned and regulated by the Bureau of Reclamation.
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Summary
Completed in 1951, this earth dam stands at a height of 220 feet and serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, and recreation. With a maximum storage capacity of 1,473,118 acre-feet and a surface area of 19,560 acres, Boysen Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
Despite its age, Boysen Dam remains a vital infrastructure for water supply and flood control, with a high hazard potential and very high risk assessment. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 60 feet and two slide (sluice gate) outlet gates. The surrounding area is at risk of inundation, prompting the need for emergency action plans and risk management measures. The dam is regularly inspected by the Bureau of Reclamation to ensure its structural integrity and readiness for any potential emergencies.
Boysen Dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management in the face of climate variability and increasing water demands. Its role in flood risk reduction, irrigation, and power generation highlights the need for sustainable infrastructure to address the challenges posed by a changing climate. As water enthusiasts and climate advocates, it is essential to monitor and support initiatives that prioritize the resilience and sustainability of critical water infrastructure like Boysen Dam.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
1143 |
Dam Height |
220 |
River Or Stream |
WIND RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
19560 |
Hydraulic Height |
144 |
Drainage Area |
7710 |
Nid Storage |
1473118 |
Structural Height |
220 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
220 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Wind R Bl Boysen Res Wyo
|
819cfs |
Fivemile Creek Near Shoshoni
|
83cfs |
Wind River Ab Boysen Reservoir
|
510cfs |
Wind River At Riverton
|
366cfs |
Little Wind River Near Riverton
|
142cfs |
Wind River Near Kinnear
|
346cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Boysen State Park
|
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Tough Creek Campground
|
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Lake Cameahwait - USBR
|
Boysen
Wedding of the waters