Dad Dahl Detention # 2 Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Dad Dahl Detention #2 Dam, located in Sweetwater, Wyoming, is a federal-owned structure primarily designed for debris control along the South Barrel Springs Draw.
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Summary
Constructed in 1963 by the Bureau of Land Management, this gravity dam stands at a structural height of 30 feet with a hydraulic height of 26 feet, spanning 800 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 128.6 acre-feet, the dam serves as a crucial resource for managing water flow and preventing debris buildup in the area.
Despite its importance, the dam is currently rated as having a low hazard potential with a poor condition assessment, indicating the need for maintenance and upgrades to ensure its long-term stability. The last inspection in July 2016 highlighted the need for improvements, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. With its uncontrolled spillway and lack of outlet gates, there are concerns about the dam's ability to handle increased water flow during extreme weather events, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and weather patterns in the region, the Dad Dahl Detention #2 Dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water quality and preventing potential hazards. With its federal ownership and regulation by the Bureau of Land Management, there is a clear responsibility to ensure the dam's safety and effectiveness for the surrounding community. By addressing the identified maintenance needs and implementing risk management strategies, the dam can continue to fulfill its important role in water resource management for years to come.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
800 |
River Or Stream |
South Barrel Springs Draw |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
24.1 |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Nid Storage |
128.6 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Muddy Creek Below Young Draw
|
0cfs |
Little Snake River Near Dixon
|
69cfs |
Slater Fork Near Slater
|
7cfs |
Little Snake River Near Slater
|
23cfs |
Jack Creek Above Coyote Draw
|
133cfs |
Yampa River Near Maybell
|
204cfs |
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.
Dad Dahl Detention # 2 Dam
Muddy Creek