Point Of Rocks Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Albany County, Wyoming, the Point of Rocks dam stands as a vital structure along the South Branch of South Chugwater River.


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Summary

Built in 1975 by designer Donald R. Lamb, this earth dam serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction and the creation of a fish and wildlife pond. With a height of 26 feet and a length of 250 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 62 acre-feet and a surface area of 5 acres.

Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, prompting the need for regular inspections and maintenance. The last inspection in June 2020 revealed the dam to be in need of attention. The Point of Rocks dam is regulated by the Wyoming State Engineer's Office, with enforcement and permitting responsibilities also falling under state jurisdiction.

As climate change continues to impact water resources, the Point of Rocks dam serves as a crucial infrastructure for managing flood risks and supporting local wildlife. With its strategic location in Chugwater and proximity to the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, this dam plays a key role in water management efforts in Wyoming.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

SO. BRANCH OF SOUTH CHUGWATER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

21

Nid Storage

62

Structural Height

28

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 0

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

28
       
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.