Sore Paw Reservoir Report
Nearby: Green Hills Dm No. 1
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Sore Paw is a Federal-owned earth dam located in Worland, Wyoming, specifically along the Sore Paw Draw.
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Summary
Built in 1964, this dam serves multiple purposes, including fire protection, stock watering, and creating a small fish pond. With a height of 26 feet and a length of 430 feet, Sore Paw has a storage capacity of 46 acre-feet and a surface area of 4 acres.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Sore Paw is subject to regular inspections every five years to ensure its safety and reliability. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 30 feet and no outlet gates. Located in a relatively remote area, Sore Paw provides essential water resources for the surrounding area while also supporting wildlife habitats and recreational activities.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the role that Sore Paw plays in local water management and conservation efforts. As a key infrastructure for fire protection and livestock watering, this dam contributes to the sustainable use of water resources in the region. With its moderate risk assessment and ongoing maintenance, Sore Paw demonstrates the importance of proactive dam management in ensuring the safety and resilience of water infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
430 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
SORE PAW DRAW |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Nid Storage |
46 |
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.
Sore Paw