Willits Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Johnson County, Wyoming, Willits is a privately owned irrigation dam situated on the West Fork Little Goose Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1940, this earth dam stands at 22 feet tall and spans 400 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 96 acre-feet. The dam serves the primary purpose of irrigation, supporting agricultural activities in the surrounding area.

With a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Willits is regulated by the Wyoming State Engineer's Office and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. The dam features a single valve outlet gate and an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 30 feet. In the event of an emergency, Willits has established emergency action plans to mitigate any potential risks and ensure the safety of downstream communities.

Owned and operated by a private entity, Willits plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. As climate change continues to impact water availability and usage, the upkeep and maintenance of dams like Willits are essential for sustaining agriculture and supporting the local ecosystem.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

W. FORK LITTLE GOOSE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

17

Drainage Area

0.1

Nid Storage

96

Structural Height

22

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

22
       
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.