Blue Ridge Detention Reservoir Report
Nearby: Bill Leavitt Reservoir Lampman
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Blue Ridge Detention is a gravity dam located in Basin, Wyoming, along the Ridge Draw Nowood River.
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Summary
Completed in 1961, this federal-owned structure is primarily used for recreational purposes and is regulated by the Bureau of Land Management. With a hydraulic height of 26 feet and a structural height of 31 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 194.29 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 16.49 acres.
Despite its low hazard potential, Blue Ridge Detention is currently assessed to be in poor condition. The last inspection was conducted in August 2016, with a frequency of every five years. The dam's risk assessment is moderate, with a risk management plan yet to be specified. The structure's poor condition and the lack of recent maintenance highlight the importance of regular inspection and maintenance to ensure the safety and functionality of this essential water resource.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts monitoring Blue Ridge Detention should be aware of its outdated condition assessment and the need for timely maintenance and risk management measures. With its significant storage capacity and location along the Ridge Draw Nowood River, this dam plays a crucial role in water management in the Big Horn County, Wyoming area. Continuous monitoring and proactive measures are essential to safeguard against potential risks and ensure the long-term sustainability of this important water infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Length |
363 |
River Or Stream |
RIDGE DRAW NOWOOD RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
16.49 |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Drainage Area |
1390 |
Nid Storage |
194.29 |
Structural Height |
31 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
31 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bighorn River At Basin
|
996cfs |
Shell Creek Near Shell
|
74cfs |
Bighorn R At Worland Wyo
|
4350cfs |
Shell Creek Above Shell Creek Reservoir
|
13cfs |
Bighorn River At Kane
|
1340cfs |
Shoshone River Near Lovell
|
460cfs |
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.
Blue Ridge Detention