Summary
Completed in 1938 by the USDA Forest Service, this dam primarily serves recreational purposes, including fish and wildlife management. Situated on the East Tensleep Creek, Meadowlark has a structural height of 33 feet and a hydraulic height of 21 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 5,505 acre-feet.
With a surface area of 276 acres and a drainage area of 39 square miles, Meadowlark poses a high hazard potential due to its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated. The last inspection was conducted in October 2020, with an inspection frequency of 1 year. While the risk assessment for Meadowlark is moderate, with a DSAC assigned date of none, there is a lack of information on risk management measures and inundation maps prepared.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Meadowlark to be an intriguing structure with its historical significance and role in providing recreational opportunities in the Washakie County area. The dam's association with the USDA Forest Service adds to its environmental importance, making it a focal point for conservation efforts and potential risk mitigation strategies. As a key feature on the East Tensleep Creek, Meadowlark's management and maintenance will continue to be vital in ensuring the safety and sustainability of this water resource in Wyoming.
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
247 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
EAST TENSLEEP CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
276 |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Drainage Area |
39 |
Nid Storage |
5505 |
Structural Height |
33 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
33 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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 |
|---|---|---|
Lake Point Campground
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Boulder Park
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Boulder Park Campground
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Bull Creek Campground
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Bull Creek
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Lake View
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Meadowlark
Paint Rock Creek (South Fork)
Laddie Creek
Canyon Creek
Paint Rock Creek