Donlin Detention Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Charlotte Antelope Dam
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Nestled in Natrona County, Wyoming, the Donlin Detention Dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience.
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Summary
Built in 1955 by the Bureau of Land Management, this earth dam serves multiple purposes, including fire protection, stock watering, and creating a small fish pond. With a height of 34 feet and a length of 470 feet, the dam holds a storage capacity of 233 acre-feet, ensuring a stable water supply for the surrounding area.
Despite its crucial role in safeguarding the community, the Donlin Detention Dam has faced challenges in recent years. A 2018 inspection revealed poor conditions, prompting concerns about its long-term viability. While the dam's hazard potential is classified as low, its risk assessment indicates moderate vulnerabilities, highlighting the need for comprehensive risk management measures. As climate change continues to impact water resources, stakeholders must prioritize the maintenance and rehabilitation of critical infrastructure like the Donlin Detention Dam to ensure the safety and sustainability of the region.
As water enthusiasts and climate advocates alike look towards the future, the Donlin Detention Dam serves as a reminder of the intricate balance between human needs and environmental stewardship. With its strategic location on Alkali Creek and proximity to Lysite, the dam plays a vital role in mitigating flood risks and providing essential water resources. By addressing the dam's maintenance and condition assessment needs, stakeholders can uphold its legacy as a resilient structure that safeguards both people and nature in the face of evolving climate challenges.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
470 |
Dam Height |
34 |
River Or Stream |
ALKALI CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
23 |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Nid Storage |
233 |
Structural Height |
32 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
34 |
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.
Donlin Detention Dam
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