Summary
Built in 1951 by designer Paul H. Berg, this earth dam stands at a height of 168 feet and serves primarily for flood risk reduction and irrigation purposes. Managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, Keyhole has a storage capacity of 629,025 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 9,411 acres.
With a high hazard potential, Keyhole is regulated and inspected by the Bureau of Reclamation to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency. The dam's spillway width is 19 feet, and it has a maximum discharge capacity of 10,850 cubic feet per second. Although the condition assessment is currently not available, the dam's Emergency Action Plan has been prepared and last revised in March 2017, indicating readiness for potential emergencies.
As a vital water resource infrastructure in Crook County, Wyoming, climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate Keyhole's significant role in managing flood risks and supporting irrigation activities in the region. Its strategic location and design reflect a commitment to enhancing water security and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
3420 |
Dam Height |
168 |
River Or Stream |
BELLE FOURCHE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9411 |
Hydraulic Height |
113 |
Drainage Area |
1950 |
Nid Storage |
629025 |
Structural Height |
168 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
168 |
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.
Keyhole