Hughes is a historic earth dam located on Big Horse Creek in Goshen, Wyoming, completed in 1904 for irrigation purposes. With a height of 16 feet and a length of 1200 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 741 acre-feet and serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area. Despite its age, the dam is still in use and is regulated by the Wyoming State Engineer's Office, with regular inspections ensuring its safety and functionality.

Although Hughes Dam has a low hazard potential, its poor condition assessment raises concerns about its long-term viability. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, with a width of 12 feet, and it has both uncontrolled and valve outlet gates. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate (3), prompting the need for continued monitoring and potentially implementing risk management measures to address any potential issues that may arise in the future. Additionally, the dam's location in a rural area highlights the importance of maintaining its structural integrity to safeguard the surrounding community and agricultural lands.

As a key component of the irrigation infrastructure in the region, Hughes Dam plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities and water management in Goshen County, Wyoming. With its historical significance and ongoing importance for water resource management, efforts to maintain and improve the dam's condition are essential for ensuring the continued sustainability of water supply and irrigation in the area. The collaboration between state and federal agencies, including the Wyoming State Engineer's Office and the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, underscores the shared responsibility for the stewardship of this vital water resource.