Big Horn Dike B Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Big Horn Dike B, located in Beckton, Wyoming, is a privately owned earth dam built in 1964 for the primary purpose of irrigation along Cross Creek.


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Summary

This structure, regulated by the state and with a high hazard potential, is crucial for water resource management in the area. Despite being in fair condition as of the last assessment in 2018, the dam is subject to regular inspections, with a moderate risk assessment indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance.

With its uncontrolled spillway and stone core, Big Horn Dike B plays a significant role in the water infrastructure of Johnson County, Wyoming. The dam's location in a high-risk area necessitates a thorough emergency action plan and risk management measures to ensure the safety of nearby residents and agricultural lands. The dam's association with the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers further highlights its importance in the regional water resource and climate management efforts.

As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the maintenance and upkeep of structures like Big Horn Dike B become increasingly critical. With its strategic position along Cross Creek and its essential role in irrigation, this earth dam serves as a vital component of the water management system in Wyoming. Ongoing monitoring, inspections, and risk assessments are essential to ensure the safety and sustainability of this key water resource infrastructure.

Year Completed

1964

River Or Stream

CROSS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.