Joy No. 1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Joy No.
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Summary
1 is a private irrigation dam located on Stinking Water Creek Tributary in Converse, Wyoming. Built in 1984 by designer Detmer R. Knapp, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and has a storage capacity of 188 acre-feet. With a normal storage of 103 acre-feet, the dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish ponds in addition to irrigation.
The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled with a width of 70 feet, and it features a slide gate outlet. Despite its age, Joy No. 1 is in satisfactory condition with a low hazard potential according to the latest inspection conducted in May 2020. The risk assessment for this dam is moderate (3), indicating a moderate level of risk associated with its operation and maintenance. Overall, Joy No. 1 plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region, contributing to agricultural activities and wildlife support in the area.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Joy No. 1 an intriguing structure due to its location on Stinking Water Creek Tributary and its multiple functions beyond irrigation. The dam's design and construction details, along with its current condition and risk assessment, offer valuable insights into the management of water resources in Wyoming. With Liz Cheney as the Congressional representative for the area, the dam serves as a vital infrastructure supporting the agricultural and environmental needs of the region.
Year Completed |
1984 |
Dam Length |
475 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
STINKING WATER CR TRIB SAND CK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
17 |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Drainage Area |
17.4 |
Nid Storage |
188 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
25 |
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.
Joy No. 1