Settling Basin Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Settling Basin, located in Lincoln, Wyoming, serves as a crucial structure for debris control on the Hams Fork-Offstream river.


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Summary

Built in 1985, this earth dam stands at 24 feet high with a hydraulic height of 19 feet, offering a storage capacity of 88 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is debris control, with a spillway width of 5 feet and three valve outlet gates for water management. Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Settling Basin is regularly inspected every 5 years to ensure its structural integrity.

Owned by a public utility in Wyoming, Settling Basin is regulated and permitted by the State Engineer's Office, demonstrating a commitment to safety and compliance with state regulations. The dam's location on HWY. 189, just 2 miles from the city, makes it a critical infrastructure for the local community. With a surface area of 13 acres and a drainage area of 0, Settling Basin plays a vital role in managing water flow and mitigating potential risks in the area.

Settling Basin's risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk (3), prompting the need for ongoing risk management measures and regular inspections to ensure its continued safety and functionality. As climate change impacts water resources and infrastructure, structures like Settling Basin play a crucial role in maintaining water supply and managing potential hazards. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience can appreciate Settling Basin's importance in safeguarding the local community and environment.

Year Completed

1985

Dam Length

540

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

HAMS FORK-OFFSTREAM

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13

Hydraulic Height

19

Nid Storage

88

Structural Height

24

Outlet Gates

Valve - 3

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

24
       
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.