Biscuit Reservoir Report
Nearby: Thompson Stockwater
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Biscuit is a privately owned dam located in Niobrara, Wyoming, with a primary purpose of irrigation.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Constructed in 1977 by Lawrence T. Price, the Earth-type dam stands at a height of 24 feet and has a hydraulic height of 17 feet. The dam stretches 506 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 83 acre-feet, with a maximum discharge of 4,423 cubic feet per second.
Despite being regulated and inspected by the State of Wyoming, Biscuit is currently assessed as being in poor condition with a low hazard potential. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a spillway width of 200 feet and an outlet gate in the form of a slide (sluice gate). With a risk assessment rating of moderate (3), there are no emergency action plans in place, and the last inspection took place in March 2020, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and efficiency of this vital water resource infrastructure.
Situated on the Conley Draw tributary of Indian Creek, Biscuit serves as a critical water management structure in the region, supporting agricultural activities through irrigation. As climate change impacts intensify, the proper functioning and maintenance of dams like Biscuit become even more crucial in ensuring water security and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions. It is essential for stakeholders to prioritize the upkeep and improvement of such infrastructure to safeguard water resources for current and future generations.
Year Completed |
1977 |
Dam Length |
506 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
CONLEY DRAW, TRIB INDIAN CR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Nid Storage |
83 |
Structural Height |
24 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
24 |
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.
Biscuit