Summary
Built in 1987 by designer Robert E. Johnson, the dam stands at 16 feet high and spans 1,715 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 698 acre-feet and a surface area of 93 acres. The dam is located on Shell Creek and is regulated and inspected by the Wyoming State Engineer's Office, with a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment.
Despite its modest size, Cow Creek plays a crucial role in providing water for irrigation and supporting local wildlife. The dam also serves as a fire protection resource and a small fish pond, demonstrating its versatility in meeting various water needs in the area. With a controlled spillway width of 134 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 1,270 cubic feet per second, the dam is equipped to handle moderate risk levels and ensure the safety of the surrounding community.
Ensuring the proper maintenance and regulation of Cow Creek is essential to preserving its functionality and mitigating potential risks. With regular inspections every five years and a comprehensive emergency action plan in place, the dam is well-prepared to respond to any unexpected events. As a vital water resource in the region, Cow Creek stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1987 |
Dam Length |
1715 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
SHELL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
93 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
135.3 |
Nid Storage |
698 |
Structural Height |
16 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Muddy Creek Below Young Draw
|
0cfs |
Little Snake River Near Lily
|
86cfs |
Little Snake River Near Dixon
|
76cfs |
Yampa River At Deerlodge Park
|
384cfs |
Yampa River Near Maybell
|
217cfs |
Slater Fork Near Slater
|
7cfs |
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.
Cow Creek
Skull Creek