Shorty's Reservoir Report
Nearby: Ray Detention Dam Two Wash Detention
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Shorty's Dam, located in Washakie, Wyoming, is a federal-owned structure designed by Edmond R.
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Summary
Bates. Completed in 1962, this earth dam on Shorty's Draw serves multiple purposes, including fire protection, stock water, and a small fish pond. The dam stands at 26 feet high and spans 500 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 55 acre-feet and a surface area of 5 acres.
Despite its low hazard potential, Shorty's Dam is currently assessed as being in poor condition. The last inspection in June 2021 revealed this, with an inspection frequency of every 5 years. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled with a width of 110 feet, and it has a maximum discharge capacity of 1000 cubic feet per second. With a moderate risk rating and a need for improvement in its condition, Shorty's Dam is a significant water resource structure in need of attention and maintenance to ensure its continued functionality and safety for the surrounding community.
In the heart of Wyoming's scenic landscape, Shorty's Dam presents both a practical and environmental asset for the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding and advocating for the maintenance and improvement of such structures is crucial for preserving the delicate balance of water management and ecological sustainability in this area. With its historical significance and vital role in providing essential services, Shorty's Dam stands as a reminder of the importance of responsible water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing demands on our natural resources.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
SHORTY'S DRAW |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Nid Storage |
55 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
26 |
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.
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Shorty's