Dean Springs Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Dean Springs Dam, located in Natrona, Wyoming, stands as a testament to the Bureau of Land Management's commitment to debris control.
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Summary
Completed in 1963, this gravity dam on Dean Springs Draw serves the critical purpose of preventing debris buildup and ensuring the smooth flow of water. With a structural height of 30 feet and a hydraulic height of 25 feet, this dam plays a crucial role in managing the 4.59 square miles of drainage area it oversees.
Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is marked as unsatisfactory, raising concerns for its long-term effectiveness. In 2017, an inspection revealed the need for maintenance and potential improvements to meet regulatory standards. While the dam has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, there is currently no detailed risk management plan in place. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, staying informed about the upkeep and potential enhancements of Dean Springs Dam is essential to ensuring its continued functionality and environmental impact.
As a Federal-owned structure managed by the Bureau of Land Management, Dean Springs Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. With a storage capacity of 18.36 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 9 feet, this dam not only controls debris but also contributes to the overall ecosystem health. While its uncontrolled spillway and lack of outlet gates may pose challenges, the dam's strategic location and design make it a key asset for maintaining water flow and mitigating potential hazards. Keeping a close eye on the dam's condition, inspection frequency, and risk assessment is vital for safeguarding water resources and climate resilience in the area.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
587 |
River Or Stream |
DEAN SPRINGS DRAW |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
6.8 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
4.59 |
Nid Storage |
18.36 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
30 |
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.
Dean Springs Dam
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