Wyo. Refining Containment Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Wyo.


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Summary

Refining Containment Pond in Weston, Wyoming, is a privately owned structure designed by Banner & Associates to serve as a debris control system along Windmill Draw. Completed in 1980, this earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet with a hydraulic height of 25 feet, providing a storage capacity of 297 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the pond's poor condition assessment raises concerns, as it is in need of maintenance and repair.

With a primary purpose of debris control, the Wyo. Refining Containment Pond plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area. However, its outdated design and poor condition highlight the importance of regular inspection and maintenance to ensure its continued functionality and safety. The presence of an uncontrolled spillway and other controlled outlet gates further emphasize the need for proactive risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards and ensure the pond's effectiveness in the event of emergencies.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure across the globe, the Wyo. Refining Containment Pond serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices and the need for ongoing investment in critical infrastructure. By addressing the pond's maintenance needs and implementing risk management strategies, stakeholders can safeguard this essential resource and enhance its resilience to future climate challenges.

Year Completed

1980

Dam Length

2050

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

WINDMILL DRAW

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

29

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

297

Structural Height

28

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 1

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.