Christensen No. 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Christensen No.


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Summary

1 is a privately owned irrigation dam located on the Coates Draw River in Johnson, Wyoming. Completed in 1987, the dam stands at a height of 55 feet and has a hydraulic height of 50 feet, serving a primary purpose of irrigation for the surrounding area. With a storage capacity of 402 acre-feet and a surface area of 21 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

The dam is constructed primarily of earth and stone materials, with a slide (sluice gate) as its outlet gate. Despite its age, Christensen No. 1 is in fair condition according to the latest inspection conducted in May 2021, with a low hazard potential. The dam is regulated and inspected by the state of Wyoming, ensuring its continued safe operation for both irrigation and fish and wildlife conservation purposes. As a significant piece of infrastructure in the area, the dam contributes to the management of water resources and climate resilience in this part of Wyoming.

Overall, Christensen No. 1 is a vital component of the water infrastructure in Johnson County, Wyoming, providing essential irrigation water for agricultural activities in the region. With its low hazard potential and fair condition, the dam continues to serve its intended purposes while being subject to regular inspections and state regulations. Its presence on the Coates Draw River contributes to the conservation of water resources and supports the local ecosystem, making it a key asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area.

Year Completed

1987

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

55

River Or Stream

COATES DRAW

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

21

Hydraulic Height

50

Drainage Area

2.9

Nid Storage

402

Structural Height

55

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

55
       
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.