Detention Dam 1492 No. 3 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Detention Dam 1492 No.
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Summary
3, located in Baggs, Wyoming, is a Federal-owned gravity dam primarily designed for debris control along the Rattle Draw river. Built in 1954 by the Bureau of Land Management, this structure stands at a hydraulic height of 17 feet and a structural height of 21 feet, with a length of 493 feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed to be in poor condition, highlighting the need for potential maintenance and improvements.
With a storage capacity of 44.2 acre-feet and a normal storage of 2.53 acre-feet, Detention Dam 1492 No. 3 serves a critical role in managing flood risks and protecting downstream areas. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 18 feet, can handle a maximum discharge of 28 cubic feet per second. Although the risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, the dam's associated structures and inspection frequency suggest a commitment to ensuring its continued safety and functionality.
Overall, Detention Dam 1492 No. 3 remains a key landmark in the water resource management infrastructure of Carbon County, Wyoming. Its historical significance, combined with its essential role in debris control and flood mitigation, underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and effectiveness of this critical structure for both water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
493 |
River Or Stream |
Rattle Draw |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
11.6 |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Drainage Area |
1220 |
Nid Storage |
44.2 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
21 |
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.
Detention Dam 1492 No. 3
Muddy Creek