Branch Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Branch is a Federal-owned earth dam located in Natrona, Wyoming, specifically in Sussex.


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Summary

Completed in 1967, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond maintenance. With a height of 27 feet and a hydraulic height of 22 feet, Branch has a storage capacity of 31 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 500 cubic feet per second.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Branch is subject to regular state regulation, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 100 feet and is situated on Branch Draw, a river or stream in the area. With its moderate risk assessment and a history of inspections dating back to 2018, Branch is an important water resource for the region.

Branch is situated within Congressional District 00 in Wyoming and is overseen by the state regulatory agency SEO. With its strategic location and multiple purposes, this dam plays a crucial role in fire protection, livestock management, and recreational activities in the area. Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Branch to be a fascinating example of water infrastructure that balances human needs with environmental considerations in the heart of Wyoming.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

BRANCH DRAW

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

22

Nid Storage

31

Structural Height

27

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

27
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.