Muddy Guard No. 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Muddy Guard No.


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Summary

1 is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Arvada, Wyoming, along the Blue Hill Draw river. Built in 1976, this earth dam stands at a height of 50 feet and has a storage capacity of 402 acre-feet. With a spillway width of 20 feet and an uncontrolled spillway type, this dam serves the primary purpose of irrigation for the surrounding area.

Despite its low hazard potential, Muddy Guard No. 1 is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement by the Wyoming State Engineer's Office. The dam is designed by Larry Baccari and is maintained in good condition, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3 out of 5. The last inspection took place in April 2019, with a scheduled frequency of every 5 years to ensure its safety and functionality.

Located in Johnson County, Wyoming, Muddy Guard No. 1 plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. With its stone core and soil foundation, this dam contributes to the irrigation needs of the area and serves as a vital infrastructure for sustainable agriculture and water supply in the community.

Year Completed

1976

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

50

River Or Stream

BLUE HILL DRAW

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

27

Hydraulic Height

45

Drainage Area

0.6

Nid Storage

402

Structural Height

50

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

50
       
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.