Big Sandy Reservoir Report
Nearby: Big Sandy Dike Eden Dike 1
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Big Sandy, located in Sweetwater, Wyoming, is a Federal-owned dam on Big Sandy Creek with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.
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Summary
Constructed in 1951, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 85 feet and has a storage capacity of 54,400 acre-feet. The dam spans 2,350 feet in length and has a spillway width of 170 feet, designed to handle a maximum discharge of 7,350 cubic feet per second.
Managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, Big Sandy plays a critical role in mitigating flood risks in the region and providing irrigation water for agricultural purposes. The dam is state-regulated and inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency. With a hazard potential rated as high and a moderate risk assessment score, efforts are in place to manage potential risks and ensure the safety of surrounding communities.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Big Sandy serves as a vital infrastructure for water management in the area, showcasing the intersection of engineering, environmental stewardship, and public safety. As a key component of the Bureau of Reclamation's operations, the dam exemplifies the importance of proactive risk management and regulatory oversight in safeguarding water resources and enhancing resilience to climate-related challenges. With its strategic location and significant storage capacity, Big Sandy stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to balance water needs, flood protection, and ecological sustainability in the region.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
2350 |
Dam Height |
85 |
River Or Stream |
BIG SANDY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2510 |
Hydraulic Height |
69 |
Drainage Area |
439 |
Nid Storage |
54400 |
Structural Height |
85 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
85 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Big Sandy
Big Sandy Reservoir Near Farson
Big Sandy Reservoir
Eden Reservoir