Big Pike Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lost Alkali Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Big Pike Dam, located in Natrona, Wyoming, is a federal-owned structure managed by the Bureau of Land Management.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1965, this gravity dam serves primarily for debris control on the TRIB INDIAN CREEK. With a hydraulic height of 31 feet and a structural height of 35 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 160.5 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 30 feet.
Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition was assessed as unsatisfactory during the last inspection in July 2017. The dam has an uncontrolled spillway and no outlet gates, with a maximum discharge capacity and drainage area left unlisted. The risk assessment for Big Pike Dam indicates moderate risk, emphasizing the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its stability and effectiveness in mitigating debris flow and protecting the surrounding environment and communities. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Big Pike Dam presents an intriguing case study in federal dam management and the challenges of balancing environmental protection with infrastructure maintenance.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
363 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB INDIAN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
10.7 |
Hydraulic Height |
31 |
Nid Storage |
160.5 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
35 |
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.
Big Pike Dam