Bonneville Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bonneville Reservoir, located in Fremont County, Wyoming, is a Federal-owned water resource managed by the Bureau of Land Management.


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Summary

Built in 1941, this gravity dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and as a small fish pond. With a structural height of 26 feet and a hydraulic height of 22 feet, the reservoir has a storage capacity of 156.1 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 15.9 acres.

Despite its low hazard potential, Bonneville Reservoir is considered to be in poor condition and poses a high risk, according to a recent assessment. The dam lacks a spillway, and its inspection frequency is set at five years. The reservoir is primarily regulated by the State of Wyoming through the State Engineer's Office, with regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement in place.

As a key component of the water infrastructure in the region, Bonneville Reservoir plays a crucial role in providing water resources for firefighting, livestock, and recreational activities. With its historical significance dating back to the early 20th century, efforts are being made to enhance the safety and functionality of the dam to ensure the continued protection and management of this valuable water resource in Wyoming.

Year Completed

1941

Dam Length

580

River Or Stream

TURK DRAW

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

15.9

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

3.5

Nid Storage

156.1

Structural Height

26

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

26
       
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.