Bischoff Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bischoff is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Big Horn, Wyoming, along Willow Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1977, this earth dam stands at a height of 56 feet with a hydraulic height of 51 feet and a length of 680 feet. It serves multiple purposes including irrigation, fire protection, stock water, and small fish pond support. With a normal storage capacity of 101 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 126 acre-feet, Bischoff provides crucial water resources for the surrounding area.

Although Bischoff has a low hazard potential, its condition assessment is marked as poor, with the last inspection in 2017 revealing the need for potential improvements. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled with a width of 2 feet, and it is regulated by the Wyoming State Engineer's Office. Despite its moderate risk level, Bischoff plays a vital role in water management and agriculture in the region. With its proximity to the Omaha District and congressional representation by Liz Cheney, Bischoff stands as a key infrastructure for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor and support for sustainable water management practices in Wyoming.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

680

Dam Height

56

River Or Stream

WILLOW CREEK OFFSTREAM

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

51

Drainage Area

0.1

Nid Storage

126

Structural Height

56

Outlet Gates

Valve - 2

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

56
       
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.